Glucagon antagonists/inverse agonists

ABSTRACT

A novel class of compounds, which act to antagonize the action of the glucagon hormone on the glucagon receptor. Owing to their antagonizing effect of the glucagon receptor the compounds may be suitable for the treatment and/or prevention of any diseases and disorders, wherein a glucagon antagonistic action is beneficial, such as hyperglycemia, Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, disorders of the lipid metabolism, such as dyslipidemia, and obesity.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to agents that act to antagonizethe action of the glucagon peptide hormone on the glucagon receptor.More particularly, it relates to glucagon antagonists or inverseagonists.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Glucagon is a key hormonal agent that, in co-operation withinsulin, mediates homeostatic regulation of the amount of glucose in theblood. Glucagon primarily acts by stimulating certain cells (mostlyliver cells) to release glucose when blood glucose levels fall. Theaction of glucagon is opposite to that of insulin, which stimulatescells to take up and store glucose whenever blood glucose levels rise.Both glucagon and insulin are peptide hormones.

[0003] Glucagon is produced in the alpha islet cells of the pancreas andinsulin in the beta islet cells. Diabetes mellitus is a common disorderof glucose metabolism. The disease is characterized by hyperglycemia andmay be classified as Type 1 diabetes, the insulin-dependent form, orType 2 diabetes, which is non-insulin-dependent in character. Subjectswith Type 1 diabetes are hyperglycemic and hypoinsulinemic, and theconventional treatment for this form of the disease is to provideinsulin. However, in some patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes,absolute or relative elevated glucagon levels have been shown tocontribute to the hyperglycemic state. Both in healthy control animalsas well as in animal models of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, removal ofcirculating glucagon with selective and specific antibodies has resultedin reduction of the glycemic level (Brand et al., Diabetologia 37, 985(1994); Diabetes 43, [suppl 1], 172A (1994); Am. J. Physiol. 269,E469-E477 (1995); Diabetes 44 [suppl 1], 134A (1995); Diabetes 45, 1076(1996)). These studies suggest that glucagon suppression or an actionthat antagonizes glucagon could be a useful adjunct to conventionalantihyperglycemia treatment of diabetes. The action of glucagon can besuppressed by providing an antagonist or an inverse agonist, iesubstances that inhibit or prevent glucagon-induced responses. Theantagonist can be peptidic or non-peptidic in nature.

[0004] Native glucagon is a 29 amino acid peptide having the sequence:

[0005]His-Ser-Glu-Gly-Thr-Phe-Thr-Ser-Asp-Tyr-Ser-Lys-Tyr-Leu-Asp-Ser-Arg-Arg-Ala-Gln-Asp-Phe-Val-Gln-Trp-Leu-Met-Asn-Thr-NH₂.

[0006] Glucagon exerts its action by binding to and activating itsreceptor, which is part of the Glu-cagon-Secretin branch of the7-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptor family (Jelinek et al.,Science 259, 1614, (1993)). The receptor functions by activating theadenylyl cyclase second messenger system and the result is an increasein cAMP levels.

[0007] Several publications disclose peptides that are stated to act asglucagon antagonists. Probably, the most thoroughly characterizedantagonist is DesHis¹[Glu⁹]-glucagon amide (Unson et al., Peptides 10,1171 (1989); Post et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90, 1662 (1993)).Other antagonists are DesHis¹, Phe⁶[Glu⁹]-glucagon amide (Azizh et al.,Bioorganic & Medicinal Chem. Lett. 16, 1849 (1995)) andNLeu⁹,Ala^(11.16)-glucagon amide (Unson et al., J. Biol. Chem. 269 (17),12548 (1994)).

[0008] Peptide antagonists of peptide hormones are often quite potent.However, they are generally known not to be orally available because ofdegradation by physiological enzymes, and poor distribution in vivo.Therefore, orally available non-peptide antagonists of peptide hormonesare generally preferred. Among the non-peptide glucagon antagonists, aquinoxaline derivative,(2-styryl-3-[3-(dimethylamino)propylmethylamino]-6,7-dichloroquinoxalinewas found to displace glucagon from the rat liver receptor (Collins, J.L. et al., Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Letters 2(9):915-918(1992)). WO 94/14426 discloses use of skyrin, a natural productcomprising a pair of linked 9,10-anthracenedione groups, and itssynthetic analogues, as glucagon antagonists. U.S. Pat. No. 4,359,474discloses the glucagon antagonistic properties of 1-phenyl pyrazolederivatives. U.S. Pat. No. 4,374,130 discloses substituteddisilacyclohexanes as glucagon antagonists. WO 98/04528 (BayerCorporation) discloses substituted pyridines and biphenyls as glucagonantagonists. U.S. Pat. No. 5,776,954 (Merck & Co., Inc.) disclosessubstituted pyridyl pyrroles as glucagon antagonists and WO 98/21957, WO98/22108, WO 98/22109 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,880,139 (Merck & Co., Inc.)disclose 2,4-diaryl-5-pyridylimidazoles as glucagon antagonists.Furthermore, WO 97/16442 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,837,719 (Merck & Co., Inc.)disclose 2,5-substituted aryl pyrroles as glucagon antagonists. WO98/24780, WO 98/24782, WO 99/24404 and WO 99/32448 (Amgen Inc.) disclosesubstituted pyrimidinone and pyridone compounds and substitutedpyrimidine compounds, respectively, which are stated to possess glucagonantagonistic activity. Madsen et al. (J. Med. Chem. 1998 (41) 5151-7)discloses a series of2-(benzimidazol-2-ylthio)-1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-ethanones ascompetitive human glucagon receptor antagonists.

[0009] WO 99/01423 and WO 00/39088 (Novo Nordisk A/S) disclose differentseries of alkylidene hydrazides as glucagon antagonists/inverseagonists.

[0010] These known glucagon antagonists differ structurally from thepresent compounds.

[0011] Definitions

[0012] The following is a detailed definition of the terms used todescribe the compounds of the invention:

[0013] “Halogen” designates an atom selected from the group consistingof F, Cl, Br and I.

[0014] The term “C₁₋₆-alkyl” as used herein represents a saturated,branched or straight hydrocarbon group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms.Representative examples include, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl,n-propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl,isopentyl, neopentyl, tert-pentyl, n-hexyl, isohexyl and the like.

[0015] The term “C₂₋₄-alkenyl” as used herein represents a branched orstraight hydrocarbon group having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms and at leastone double bond. Examples of such groups include, but are not limitedto, vinyl, 1-propenyl, 2-propenyl, iso-propenyl, 1,3-butadienyl,1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, 3-butenyl, 2-methyl-1-propenyl, 1-pentenyl,2-pentenyl, 3-pentenyl, 4-pentenyl, 3-methyl-2-butenyl, 1-hexenyl,2-hexenyl, 3-hexenyl, 2,4-hexadienyl, 5-hexenyl and the like.

[0016] The term “C₂₋₆-alkynyl” as used herein represents a branched orstraight hydrocarbon group having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms and at leastone triple bond. Examples of such groups include, but are not limitedto, ethynyl, 1-propynyl, 2-propynyl, 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl, 3-butynyl,1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-pentynyl, 4-pentynyl, 1-hexynyl, 2-hexynyl,3-hexynyl, 4-hexynyl, 5-hexynyl, 2,4-hexadiynyl and the like.

[0017] The term “C₁₋₆-alkoxy” as used herein refers to the radical—O—C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein C₁₋₆-alkyl is as defined above. Representativeexamples are methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy, butoxy, sec-butoxy,tert-butoxy, pentoxy, isopentoxy, hexoxy, isohexoxy and the like.

[0018] The term “C₁₋₆-alkanoyl” as used herein denotes a group —C(O)H or—C(O)—C₁₋₅-alkyl. Representative examples are formyl, acetyl, propionyl,butyryl, valeryl, hexanoyl and the like.

[0019] The term “C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl” as used herein represents a saturated,carbocyclic group having from 3 to 8 carbon atoms. Representativeexamples are cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl,cycloheptyl, cyclooctyl and the like.

[0020] The term “C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl” as used herein represents anon-aromatic, carbocyclic group having from 4 to 8 carbon atomscontaining one or two double bonds. Representative examples are1-cyclopentenyl, 2-cyclopentenyl, 3-cyclopentenyl, 1-cyclohexenyl,2-cyclohexenyl, 3-cyclohexenyl, 2-cycloheptenyl, 3-cycloheptenyl,2-cyclooctenyl, 1,4-cyclooctadienyl and the like.

[0021] The term “heterocyclyl” as used herein represents a non-aromatic3 to 10 membered ring containing one or more heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur and optionally containing one or two doublebonds. Representative examples are pyrrolidinyl, piperidyl, piperazinyl,morpholinyl, thiomorpholinyl, aziridinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl and thelike.

[0022] The term “aryl” as used herein is intended to include carbocyclicaromatic ring systems such as phenyl, biphenylyl, naphthyl, anthracenyl,phenanthrenyl, fluorenyl, indenyl, pentalenyl, azulenyl and the like.Aryl is also intended to include the partially hydrogenated derivativesof the carbocyclic systems enumerated above. Non-limiting examples ofsuch partially hydrogenated derivatives are 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthyl,1,4-dihydronaphthyl and the like.

[0023] The term “arylene” as used herein is intended to include divalentcarbocyclic aromatic ring systems such as phenylene, biphenylylene,naphthylene, anthracenylene, phenanthrenylene, fluorenylene, indenylene,pentalenylene, azulenylene and the like. Arylene is also intended toinclude the partially hydrogenated derivatives of the carbocyclicsystems enumerated above. Non-limiting examples of such partiallyhydrogenated derivatives are 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-naphthylene,1,4-dihydronaphthylene and the like.

[0024] The term “aryloxy” as used herein denotes a group —O-aryl,wherein aryl is as defined above.

[0025] The term “aroyl” as used herein denotes a group —C(O)-aryl,wherein aryl is as defined above.

[0026] The term “heteroaryl” as used herein is intended to includeheterocyclic aromatic ring systems containing one or more heteroatomsselected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur such as furyl, thienyl,pyrrolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl, imidazolyl, isoxazolyl, isothiazolyl,1,2,3-triazolyl, 1,2,4-triazolyl, pyranyl, pyridyl, pyridazinyl,pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, 1,2,3-triazinyl, 1,2,4-triazinyl,1,3,5-triazinyl, 1,2,3-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,4-oxadiazolyl,1,2,5-oxadiazolyl, 1,3,4-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,3-thiadiazolyl,1,2,4-thiadiazolyl, 1,2,5-thiadiazolyl, 1,3,4-thiadiazolyl, tetrazolyl,thiadiazinyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, benzofuryl, benzothienyl, indazolyl,benzimidazolyl, benzthiazolyl, benzisothiazolyl, benzoxazolyl,benzisoxazolyl, purinyl, quinazolinyl, quinolizinyl, quinolinyl,isoquinolinyl, quinoxalinyl, naphthyridinyl, pteridinyl, carbazolyl,azepinyl, diazepinyl, acridinyl and the like. Heteroaryl is alsointended to include the partially hydrogenated derivatives of theheterocyclic systems enumerated above. Non-limiting examples of suchpartially hydrogenated derivatives are 2,3-dihydrobenzofuranyl,pyrrolinyl, pyrazolinyl, indolinyl, oxazolidinyl, oxazolinyl, oxazepinyland the like.

[0027] “Aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl”, “heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl”, “aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl”etc. mean C₁₋₆-alkyl or C₂₋₆-alkenyl as defined above, substituted by anaryl or heteroaryl as defined above, for example:

[0028] The term “optionally substituted” as used herein means that thegroups in question are either unsubstituted or substituted with one ormore of the substituents specified. When the groups in question aresubstituted with more than one substituent the substituents may be thesame or different.

[0029] Certain of the above defined terms may occur more than once inthe structural formulae, and upon such occurrence each term shall bedefined independently of the other.

[0030] Furthermore, when using the terms “independently are” and“independently selected from” it should be understood that the groups inquestion may be the same or different.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] The present invention is based on the unexpected observation thatthe compounds of the general formula (I) disclosed below antagonize theaction of glucagon.

[0032] The compounds are advantageous by being selective towards theglucagon receptor and show a higher binding affinity for the glucagonreceptor compared to the binding affinity for the structurally relatedGIP (Gastric Inhibitory Peptide) receptor and GLP-1 receptor.

[0033] Accordingly, the present inventions relate to compounds of thegeneral formula (I):

[0034] wherein

[0035] R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0036] A is —C(O)—, —CH(OR⁶)— or —CHF—,

[0037] wherein

[0038] R⁶ is hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0039] Z is arylene or a divalent radical derived from a 5 or 6 memberedheteroaromatic ring containing 1 or 2 heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur,

[0040] which may optionally be substituted with one or two groups R⁷ andR⁸ selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR⁹, —NR⁹R¹⁰ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0041] wherein R⁹ and R¹⁰ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0042] wherein

[0043] r is 0 or 1,

[0044] q and s independently are 0, 1, 2 or 3,

[0045] R¹¹, R¹², R¹³ and R¹⁴ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl orC₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,

[0046] wherein

[0047] R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷ and R¹⁸ independently are

[0048] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃,—OCF₂CHF₂, —S(O)₂CF₃, —SCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²², —SR²¹,—NR²¹S(O)₂R²², —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², —S(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹r²², —OC(O)R²¹R²²,—NR²¹C(O)R²², —CH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —OCH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —OC(O)R²¹, —C(O)R²¹ or—C(O)OR²¹,

[0049] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0050] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, NR²¹R²² andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0051] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyloxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkylthio, C₃₋₈-cycloalkylthio,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy,aryloxycarbonyl, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl or heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0052] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —C(O)OR²¹, —CN, —CF₃,—OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0053] wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl,

[0054] or R²¹ and R²² when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0055] or two of the groups R¹⁵ to R¹⁸ when placed in adjacent positionstogether may form a bridge —(CR²³R²⁴)_(a)—O—(CR²⁵R²⁶)_(c)—O—,

[0056] wherein

[0057] a is 0, 1 or 2,

[0058] c is 1 or 2,

[0059] R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl orfluorine, R¹⁹ and R²⁰ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0060] wherein

[0061] R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are

[0062] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OR³², —NR³²R³³, C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl or aryl,

[0063] wherein the aryl group optionally may be substituted with one ormore substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —NO₂, —OR³²,—NR³²R³³ and C₁₋₆-alkyl

[0064] wherein R³² and R³³ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, or

[0065] R³² and R³³ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together withthe said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0066] R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are

[0067] hydrogen, halogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃,—OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴,—C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or—C(O)OR³⁴

[0068] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0069] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0070] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl,heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl orheteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0071] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂,—OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0072] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0073] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0074] or two of the groups R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ when attached to the samering carbon atom or different ring carbon atoms together may form aradical —O—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—O—, —(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—or —S—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—S—,

[0075] wherein

[0076] t and l independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5,

[0077] R³⁶ and R³⁷ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0078] as well as any optical or geometric isomer or tautomeric formthereof including mixtures of these or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof.

[0079] In another aspect, the invention is concerned with compounds ofthe general formula (I′)

[0080] wherein

[0081] R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0082] A is —C(O)—, —CH(OR⁶)— or —CHF—,

[0083] wherein R⁶ is hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0084] Z is arylene or a divalent radical derived from a 5 or 6 memberedheteroaromatic ring containing 1 or 2 heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur,

[0085] which may optionally be substituted with one or two groups R⁷ andR⁸ selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR⁹, —NR⁹R¹⁰ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0086] wherein R⁹ and R¹⁰ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0087] wherein

[0088] r is 0 or 1,

[0089] q and s independently are 0, 1, 2 or 3,

[0090] R¹¹, R¹², R¹³ and R¹⁴ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl orC₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,

[0091] wherein

[0092] R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷ and R¹⁸ independently are

[0093] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CH₂CN, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂,—OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —S(O)₂CF₃, —SCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²², S²¹,—NR²¹S(O)₂R²², —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², —S(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹, —S(O)₂R²¹,—C(O)NR²¹R²², —OC(O)NR²¹R²², —NR²¹C(O)R²², —CH₂C(O)NR²¹R²²,—OCH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —CH₂OR²¹, —CH₂NR²¹R²², —OC(O)R²¹, —C(O)R²¹ or—C(O)OR²¹,

[0094] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0095] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0096] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyloxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkylthio, C₃₋₈-cycloalkylthio,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy,aryloxycarbonyl, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl or heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0097] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —C(O)OR²¹, —CN, —CF₃,—OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0098] wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl,

[0099] or R²¹ and R²² when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0100] or two of the groups R¹⁵ to R¹⁸ when placed in adjacent positionstogether may form a bridge —(CR²³R²⁴)_(a)—O—(CR²⁵R²⁶)_(c)—O—,

[0101] wherein

[0102] a is 0, 1 or 2,

[0103] c is 1 or 2,

[0104] R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl orfluorine,

[0105] R¹⁹ and R²⁰ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₁₆-alkyl,

[0106] wherein

[0107] R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are

[0108] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OR³², —NR³²R³³, C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-acycloalkenyl or aryl,

[0109] wherein the aryl group optionally may be substituted with one ormore substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —NO₂, —OR³²,—NR³²R³³ and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0110] wherein R³² and R³³ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, or

[0111] R³² and R³³ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together withthe said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0112] R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are

[0113] hydrogen, halogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃,—OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴,—C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or—C(O)OR³⁴,

[0114] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0115] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₄-alkyl,

[0116] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl,heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl orheteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0117] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂,—OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0118] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0119] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0120] or two of the groups R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ when attached to the samering carbon atom or different ring carbon atoms together may form aradical —O—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—O—, —(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—or —S—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—S—,

[0121] wherein

[0122] t and l independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5,

[0123] R³⁶ and R³⁷ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0124] as well as any optical or geometric isomer or tautomeric formthereof including mixtures of these or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof.

[0125] In another aspect, the invention is concerned with compounds ofthe general formula (I″):

[0126] wherein

[0127] R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0128] A is —C(O)—, —CH(OR⁶)— or —CH F—,

[0129] wherein R⁶ is hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or halogen,

[0130] Z is arylene or a divalent radical derived from a 5 or 6 memberedheteroaromatic ring containing 1 or 2 heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur,

[0131] which may optionally be substituted with one or two groups R⁷ andR⁸ selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR⁹, —NR⁹R¹⁰ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0132] wherein R⁹ and R¹⁰ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0133] wherein

[0134] r is 0 or 1,

[0135] q and s independently are 0, 1, 2 or 3,

[0136] R¹¹, R¹², R¹³ and R¹⁴ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0137] wherein

[0138] R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷ and R¹⁸ independently are

[0139] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CH₂CN, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂,—OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —OS(O)₂CF₃, —SCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²², —SR²¹,—NR²¹S(O)₂R²², —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², —S(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹, —S(O)₂R²¹,—OS(O)₂R²¹, —C(O)NR²¹R²², —OC(O)NR²¹R²², —NR²¹C(O)R²², —CH₂C(O)NR²¹R²²,—OCH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —CH₂OR²¹, —CH₂NR²¹R²², —OC(O)R²¹, —C(O)R²¹ or—C(O)OR²¹,

[0140] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0141] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0142] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyloxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkylthio, C₃₋₈-cycloalkylthio,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy,aryloxycarbonyl, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl or heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0143] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂,—OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0144] wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0145] or R²¹ and R²² when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0146] or two of the groups R¹⁵ to R¹⁸ when placed in adjacent positionstogether may form a bridge —(CR²³R²⁴)_(a)—O—(CR²⁵R²⁶)_(c)—O—,

[0147] wherein

[0148] a is 0, 1 or 2,

[0149] c is 1 or 2,

[0150] R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl orfluorine,

[0151] R¹⁹ and R²⁰ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0152] wherein

[0153] R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are

[0154] hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OR³², —NR³²R³³, C₁-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloakyl, G₄ cycloalkenyl or aryl,

[0155] wherein the aryl group optionally may be substituted with one ormore substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —NO₂, —OR³²,—NR³²R³³ and C₁₋₆-alkyl

[0156] wherein R³² and R³³ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, or

[0157] R³² and R³³ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together withthe said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0158] R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are

[0159] hydrogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃,—OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴, —C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵,—OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or —C(O)OR³⁴,

[0160] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0161] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³¹ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0162] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂ ₆-alkenyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl,heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy, aroyl, aryl-C₁l₆-alkoxy,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl,heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl orheteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0163] of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted withone or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂,—OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0164] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0165] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds,

[0166] or two of the groups R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ when attached to the samering carbon atom or different ring carbon atoms together may form aradical —O—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—O—, —(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—or —S—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—S—,

[0167] wherein

[0168] t and l independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5,

[0169] R³⁶ and R³⁷ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0170] as well as any optical or geometric isomer or tautomeric formthereof including mixtures of these or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof.

[0171] In one embodiment, R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ are hydrogen.

[0172] In one embodiment, A is —CHF—.

[0173] In another embodiment, A is —CH(OR⁶)—, wherein R⁶ is as definedfor formula (I), such as —CH(OH)—.

[0174] In one embodiment, Z is

[0175] wherein R⁷ and R⁸ are as defined for formula (I), such as

[0176] In one embodiment, X is

[0177] wherein q is 0 or 1, r is 0 or 1, s is 0, 1 or 2, and R¹² and R¹³independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl.

[0178] In another embodiment, X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—,—C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHC(CH₃)₂—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—,—C(O)CH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH═CH—, —(CH₂)_(s)—, —C(O)—, —C(O)O— or —NHC(O)—,wherein s is 0 or 1.

[0179] In yet another embodiment, X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—,—C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—, —C(O)CH═CH—, —(CH₂)_(s)—,—C(O)—, —C(O)O— or —NHC(O)—, wherein s is 0 or 1.

[0180] In still another embodiment, X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—,—C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—, —CH₂—, —C(O)— or —NHC(O)—.

[0181] In still a further embodiment, X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—,—C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)CH₂— or —C(O)—, such as —C(O)NH—.

[0182] In one embodiment, D is

[0183] wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, R¹⁸, R¹⁹ and R²⁰ are as defined forformula (I).

[0184] In another embodiment, D is

[0185] wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ are as defined for formula (I).

[0186] In one embodiment, R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ are independently hydrogen,halogen, —CN, —NO₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —SCF₃, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkoxy,—S—C₁₋₆-alkyl, —C(O)OR²¹, —C(O)R²¹, —CH₂OR²¹, —C(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹,—S(O)₂R²¹, —S(O)₂CF₃, —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-thioalkyl, or

[0187] aryl, heteroaryl or aryloxy, which may optionally be substitutedwith —CF₃, —OCF₃, C₁₋₆-alkyl, halogen or —C(O)OR²¹, or

[0188] two of the groups R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ when placed in adjacentpositions together form a bridge

[0189] wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, anda, c, R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ are as defined for formula (I).

[0190] In another embodiment, R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ are independentlyhydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or C₁₋₆-alkoxy or wherein R¹⁵ andR¹⁶ together form a bridge —CF₂—O—CF₂—O— and R¹⁷ is hydrogen.

[0191] In yet another embodiment, R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ independently arehydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or C₁₋₆-alkoxy.

[0192] In another embodiment, D is

[0193] wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁹ and R²⁰ are as defined for formula (I).

[0194] In yet another embodiment, D is

[0195] wherein R¹⁵ and R¹⁶ are both hydrogen and R¹⁹ is C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl.

[0196] In still another embodiment, D is

[0197] wherein R¹⁵ and R¹⁶ are both hydrogen and R¹⁹ and R²⁰ are bothC₁₋₆-alkyl.

[0198] In one embodiment, E is

[0199] wherein R²⁷, R²⁸, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined for formula(I).

[0200] In another embodiment, E is

[0201] wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ are as defined for formula (I).

[0202] In still another embodiment, E is

[0203] wherein R²⁷ and R²³ are as defined for formula (I).

[0204] In one embodiment, R²⁷ and R²⁸ are independently hydrogen,C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl or phenyl, wherein thephenyl group is optionally substituted as defined for formula (I).

[0205] In another embodiment, R²⁷ and R²⁸ are independently hydrogen,C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.

[0206] In still another embodiment, R²⁷ is hydrogen and R²⁸ isC₁₋₆-alkyl or C₃₋₈-Cycloalkyl, such as tert-butyl, cyclohexyl orcyclohexenyl.

[0207] In another embodiment, E is

[0208] wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined for formula (I).

[0209] In yet another embodiment, E is

[0210] wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined for formula (I).

[0211] In one embodiment, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are independently

[0212] hydrogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃,—OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴, —C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵,—OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or —C(O)OR³⁴,

[0213] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl,

[0214] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0215] C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl,

[0216] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0217] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0218] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds.

[0219] In yet another embodiment, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are independently

[0220] hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkoxy, halogen, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or —NR³⁴R³⁵, whereinR³⁴ and R³⁵ are as defined for formula (I), or

[0221] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which areoptionally substituted as defined for formula (I).

[0222] In still another embodiment, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are independently

[0223] hydrogen or

[0224] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which areoptionally substituted as defined for formula (I).

[0225] In yet another embodiment, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are independently

[0226] hydrogen or

[0227] C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl,

[0228] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0229] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0230] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds.

[0231] In another embodiment, R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, and R³⁰ isdifferent from hydrogen.

[0232] In still another embodiment, R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, andR³⁰ is C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl,

[0233] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0234] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0235] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds.

[0236] In yet a further embodiment, R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, andR³⁰ is C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl,

[0237] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0238] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0239] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds.

[0240] In still a further embodiment R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, andR³⁰ is cyclohexenyl,

[0241] which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituentsselected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ andC₁₋₆-alkyl,

[0242] wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl oraryl,

[0243] or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom togetherwith the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ringoptionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected fromnitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two doublebonds.

[0244] In another embodiment, R³⁰ is substituted with one C₁₋₆-alkylsubstituent, such as tert-butyl or methyl.

[0245] In still another embodiment, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are independentlyhydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.

[0246] In yet another embodiment, R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen and R³⁰is C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, such as tert-butyl,cyclohexyl or cyclohexenyl.

[0247] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a compound of thegeneral formula (I₁):

[0248] wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, X, D and E are as definedfor formula (I) or in any one of the preceding embodiments.

[0249] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a compound of thegeneral formula (I₂):

[0250] wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, D and E are as definedfor formula (I) or in any one of the preceding embodiments.

[0251] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a compound of thegeneral formula (I₃):

[0252] wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, R²⁹, R³⁰,and R³¹ are as defined for formula (I) or in any one of the precedingembodiments.

[0253] In one embodiment of the formulae (I₁), (I₂) and (I₃), R¹, R²,R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷ and R⁸ are hydrogen.

[0254] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a compound of thegeneral formula (I₄):

[0255] wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁷, R⁸, X, D and E are as defined forformula (I) or in any one of the preceding embodiments.

[0256] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a compound of thegeneral formula (I₅):

[0257] wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁷, R⁸, D and E are as defined forformula (I) or in any one of the preceding embodiments.

[0258] In one embodiment of the formulae (I₄) and (I₅), R¹, R², R³, R⁴,R⁵, R⁷ and R⁸ are hydrogen.

[0259] The compounds of the present invention may have one or moreasymmetric centres and it is intended that any optical isomers, asseparated, pure or partially purified optical isomers or racemicmixtures thereof are included within the scope of the invention.

[0260] Furthermore, when a double bond or a fully or partially saturatedring system is present in the molecule geometric isomers may be formed.It is intended that any geometric isomers, as separated, pure orpartially purified geometric isomers or mixtures thereof are includedwithin the scope of the invention. Likewise, molecules having a bondwith restricted rotation may form geometric isomers. These are alsointended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0261] Furthermore, some of the compounds of the present invention mayexist in different tautomeric forms and it is intended that anytautomeric forms that the compounds are able to form are included withinthe scope of the present invention.

[0262] The present invention also encompasses pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts of the present compounds. Such salts includepharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts, pharmaceuticallyacceptable metal salts, ammonium and alkylated ammonium salts. Acidaddition salts include salts of inorganic acids as well as organicacids. Representative examples of suitable inorganic acids includehydrochloric, hydrobromic, hydroiodic, phosphoric, sulfuric, nitricacids and the like. Representative examples of suitable organic acidsinclude formic, acetic, trichloroacetic, trifluoroacetic, propionic,benzoic, cinnamic, citric, fumaric, glycolic, lactic, maleic, malic,malonic, mandelic, oxalic, picric, pyruvic, salicylic, succinic,methane-sulfonic, ethanesulfonic, tartaric, ascorbic, pamoic,bismethylene salicylic, ethanedisulfonic, gluconic, citraconic,aspartic, stearic, palmitic, EDTA, glycolic, p-aminobenzoic, glutamic,benzenesulfonic, p-toluenesulfonic acids and the like. Further examplesof pharmaceutically acceptable inorganic or organic acid addition saltsinclude the pharmaceutically acceptable salts listed in J. Pharm. Sci.1977, 66, 2, which is incorporated herein by reference. Examples ofmetal salts include lithium, sodium, potassium, magnesium salts and thelike. Examples of ammonium and alkylated ammonium salts includeammonium, methyl-, dimethyl-, trimethyl-, ethyl-, hydroxyethyl-,diethyl-, n-butyl-, sec-butyl-, tert-butyl-, tetramethylammonium saltsand the like.

[0263] Also intended as pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition saltsare the hydrates, which the present compounds, are able to form.

[0264] Furthermore, the pharmaceutically acceptable salts comprise basicamino acid salts such as lysine, arginine and ornithine.

[0265] The acid addition salts may be obtained as the direct products ofcompound synthesis. In the alternative, the free base may be dissolvedin a suitable solvent containing the appropriate acid, and the saltisolated by evaporating the solvent or otherwise separating the salt andsolvent.

[0266] The compounds of the present invention may form solvates withstandard low molecular weight solvents using methods well known to theperson skilled in the art. Such solvates are also contemplated as beingwithin the scope of the present invention.

[0267] The invention also encompasses prodrugs of the present compounds,which on administration undergo chemical conversion by metabolicprocesses before becoming pharmacologically active substances. Ingeneral, such prodrugs will be functional derivatives of the compoundsof the general formula (I), which are readily convertible in vivo intothe required compound of the formula (I). Conventional procedures forthe selection and preparation of suitable prodrug derivatives aredescribed, for example, in “Design of Prodrugs”, ed. H. Bundgaard,Elsevier, 1985.

[0268] The invention also encompasses active metabolites of the presentcompounds.

[0269] The compounds according to the present invention act toantagonize the action of glucagon and are accordingly useful for thetreatment and/or prevention of disorders and diseases in which such anantagonism is beneficial.

[0270] Accordingly, the present compounds may be applicable for thetreatment and/or prevention of hyperglycemia, IGT (impaired glucosetolerance), insulin resistance syndromes, syndrome X, Type 1 diabetes,Type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, dyslipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia,hyperlipoproteinemia, hypercholesterolemia, arteriosclerosis includingatherosclerosis, glucagonomas, acute pancreatitis, cardiovasculardiseases, hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, gastrointestinal disorders,obesity, diabetes as a consequence of obesity, diabetic dyslipidemia,etc.

[0271] Furthermore, they may be applicable as diagnostic agents foridentifying patients having a defect in the glucagon receptor, as atherapy to increase gastric acid secretions and to reverse intestinalhypomobility due to glucagon administration.

[0272] Accordingly, in a further aspect the invention relates to acompound according to the invention for use as a medicament.

[0273] The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositionscomprising, as an active ingredient, at least one compound according tothe invention together with one or more pharmaceutically acceptablecarriers or excipients.

[0274] The pharmaceutical composition is preferably in unit dosage formcomprising from about 0.05 mg to about 1000 mg, preferably from about0.1 mg to about 500 mg and especially preferred from about 0.5 mg toabout 200 mg of the compound according to the invention.

[0275] Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of a compoundaccording to the invention for the preparation of a pharmaceuticalcomposition for the treatment and/or prevention of a disorder ordisease, wherein a glucagon antagonistic action is beneficial.

[0276] The invention also relates to a method for the treatment and/orprevention of disorders or diseases, wherein a glucagon antagonisticaction is beneficial the method comprising administering to a subject inneed thereof an effective amount of a compound according to theinvention.

[0277] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the present compoundsare used for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/orprevention of any glucagon-mediated conditions and diseases.

[0278] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the present compoundsare used for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/orprevention of hyperglycemia.

[0279] In yet a preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a medicament for loweringblood glucose in a mammal.

[0280] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the treatment and/or prevention of IGT.

[0281] In still another preferred embodiment of the invention thepresent compounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceuticalcomposition for the treatment and/or prevention of Type 2 diabetes.

[0282] In yet another preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the delaying or prevention of the progression from IGT to Type 2diabetes.

[0283] In yet another preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the delaying or prevention of the progression from non-insulinrequiring Type 2 diabetes to insulin requiring Type 2 diabetes.

[0284] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the treatment and/or prevention of Type 1 diabetes. Such treatmentand/or prevention is normally accompanied by insulin therapy.

[0285] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the treatment and/or prevention of obesity.

[0286] In yet a further preferred embodiment of the invention thepresent compounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceuticalcomposition for the treatment and/or prevention of disorders of thelipid metabolism, such as dyslipidemia.

[0287] In still a further embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical compositionfor the treatment and/or prevention of an appetite regulation or energyexpenditure disorder.

[0288] In a further aspect of the invention the present compounds arecombined with diet and/or exercise.

[0289] In yet a further aspect of the invention the present compoundsare administered in combination with one or more further activesubstances in any suitable ratios. Such further active agents may beselected from antidiabetic agents, antihyperlipidemic agents,antiobesity agents, antihypertensive agents and agents for the treatmentof complications resulting from or associated with diabetes.

[0290] Suitable antidiabetic agents comprise insulin, insulin analoguesand derivatives such as those disclosed in EP 792 290 (Novo NordiskA/S), eg N^(εB29)-tetradecanoyl des (B30) human insulin, EP 214 826 andEP 705 275 (Novo Nordisk A/S), eg Asp^(B28) human insulin, U.S. Pat. No.5,504,188 (Eli Lilly), eg Lys^(B) ²⁸ Pro^(B29) human insulin, EP 368 187(Aventis), eg Lantus, which are all incorporated herein by reference,GLP-1 derivatives such as those disclosed in WO 98/08871 (Novo NordiskA/S), which is incorporated herein by reference, as well as orallyactive hypoglycaemic agents.

[0291] The orally active hypoglycaemic agents preferably compriseimidazolines, sulphonylureas, biguamides, meglitinides,oxadiazolidinediones, thiazolidinediones, glucosidase inhibitors,glucagon antagonists, GLP-1 agonists, agents acting on the ATP-dependentpotassium channel of the β-cells eg potassium channel openers such asthose disclosed in WO 97/26265, WO 99/03861 and WO 00/37474 (NovoNordisk A/S) which are incorporated herein by reference, or nateglinideor potassium channel blockers such as BTS-67582, insulin sensitizers,DPP-IV (dipeptidyl peptidase-IV) inhibitors, PTPase inhibitors,inhibitors of hepatic enzymes involved in stimulation of gluconeogenesisand/or glycogenolysis, glucose uptake modulators, GSK-3 (glycogensynthase kinase-3) inhibitors, compounds modifying the lipid metabolismsuch as antihyperlipidemic agents and antilipidemic agents, compoundslowering food intake, PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor)and RXR (retinoid X receptor) agonists such as ALRT-268, LG-1268 orLG-1069.

[0292] In one embodiment of the invention the present compounds areadministered in combination with insulin or an insulin analogue orderivative, such as N^(εB29)-tetradecanoyl des (B30) human insulin,Asp^(B28) human insulin, Lys^(B28) Pro^(B29) human insulin, Lantus, or amix-preparation comprising one or more of these.

[0293] In a further embodiment of the invention the present compoundsare administered in combination with a sulphonylurea eg tolbutamide,chlorpropamide, tolazamide, glibenclamide, glyburide, glipizide orglicazide.

[0294] In another embodiment of the invention the present compounds areadministered in combination with a biguamide eg metformin.

[0295] In yet another embodiment of the invention the present compoundsare administered in combination with a meglitinide eg repaglinide ornateglinide.

[0296] In still another embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are administered in combination with a thiazolidinedioneinsulin sensitizer eg troglitazone, ciglitazone, pioglitazone,rosiglitazone, isaglitazone, darglitazone, englitazone, CS-011/CI-1037or T174 or the compounds disclosed in WO 97/41097, WO 97/41119, WO97/41120, WO 00/41121 and WO 98/45292 (Dr. Reddy's Research Foundation).

[0297] In still another embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds may be administered in combination with an insulin sensitizersuch as GI 262570, YM-440, MCC-555, JTT-501, AR-H039242, KRP-297,GW-409544, CRE-1 6336, AR-H049020, LY510929, MBX-102, CLX-0940,GW-501516 or the compounds disclosed in WO 99/19313, WO 00/50414, WO00/63191, WO 00/63192, WO 00/63193 (Dr. Reddy's Research Foundation) andWO 00/23425, WO 00/23415, WO 00/23451, WO 00/23445, WO 00/23417, WO00/23416, WO 00/63153, WO 00/63196, WO 00/63209, WO 00/63190 and WO00/63189 (Novo Nordisk A/S).

[0298] In a further embodiment of the invention the present compoundsare administered in combination with an α-glucosidase inhibitor egvoglibose, emiglitate, miglitol or acarbose.

[0299] In another embodiment of the invention the present compounds areadministered in combination with an agent acting on the ATP-dependentpotassium channel of the β-cells eg tolbutamide, chlorpropamide,tolazamide, glibenclamide, glyburide, glipizide, glicazide, BTS-67582,repaglinide or nateglinide.

[0300] In still another embodiment of the invention the presentcompounds are administered in combination with an antihyperlipidemicagent or antilipidemic agent eg cholestyramine, colestipol, clofibrate,gemfibrozil, lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin, probucol ordextrothyroxine.

[0301] In another aspect of the invention, the present compounds areadministered in combination with more than one of the above-mentionedcompounds eg in combination with melformin and a sulphonylurea such asglibenclamide or glyburide; a sulphonylurea and acarbose; metformin anda meglitinide such as repaglinide; acarbose and metformin; asulfonylurea, metformin and troglitazone; a sulfonylurea, metformin andpioglitazone; a sulfonylurea, metformin and an insulin sensitizer suchas disclosed in WO 00/63189 or WO 97/41097; a meglitinide such asrepaglinide, metformin and troglitazone; a meglitinide such asrepaglinide, metformin and pioglitazone; a meglitinide such asrepaglinide, metformin and an insulin sensitizer such as disclosed in WO00/63189 or WO 97/41097; insulin and a sulfonylurea; insulin and ameglitinide such as repaglinide; insulin and melformin; insulin,metformin and a meglitinide such as repaglinide; insulin, metformin anda sulfonylurea; insulin and troglitazone; insulin and pioglitazone;insulin and an insulin sensitizer such as such as disclosed in WO00/63189 or WO 97/41097; insulin and lovastatin; an insulin analogue orderivative, metformin and a meglitinide such as repaglinide; an insulinanalogue or derivative, metformin and a sulfonylurea; an insulinanalogue or derivative and troglitazone; an insulin analogue orderivative and pioglitazone; an insulin analogue or derivative and aninsulin sensitizer such as disclosed in WO 00/63189 or WO 97/41097; aninsulin analogue or derivative and lovastatin; etc.

[0302] Furthermore, the compounds according to the invention may beadministered in combination with one or more antiobesity agents orappetite regulating agents.

[0303] Such agents may be selected from the group consisting of CART(cocaine amphetamine regulated transcript) agonists, NPY (neuropeptideY) antagonists, MC4 (melanocortin 4) agonists, orexin antagonists, TNF(tumor necrosis factor) modulators, CRF (corticotropin releasing factor)agonists, CRF BP (corticotropin releasing factor binding protein)antagonists, urocortin agonists, β3 adrenergic agonists such asCL-316243, AJ-9677, GW-0604, LY362884, LY377267 or AZ-40140, MSH(melanocyte-stimulating hormone) agonists, MCH (melanocyte-concentratinghormone) antagonists, CCK (cholecystokinin) agonists, serotoninre-uptake inhibitors such as fluoxetine, seroxat or citalopram,serotonin and noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitors, 5HT (serotonin)agonists, bombesin agonists, galanin antagonists, growth hormone, growthhormone releasing compounds, TRH (thyreotropin releasing hormone)agonists, UCP 2 or 3 (uncoupling protein 2 or 3) modulators, leptinagonists, DA (dopamine) agonists (bromocriptin, doprexin),lipase/amylase inhibitors, PPAR modulators, RXR modulators or TR βagonists.

[0304] In one embodiment of the invention the antiobesity agent isleptin.

[0305] In another embodiment of the invention the antiobesity agent isdexamphetamine or amphetamine.

[0306] In another embodiment of the invention the antiobesity agent isfenfluramine or dexfenfluramine.

[0307] In still another embodiment of the invention the antiobesityagent is sibutramine.

[0308] In a further embodiment of the invention the antiobesity agent isorlistat.

[0309] In another embodiment of the invention the antiobesity agent ismazindol or phentermine.

[0310] Furthermore, the present compounds may be administered incombination with one or more antihypertensive agents. Examples ofantihypertensive agents are α-blockers such as alprenolol, atenolol,timolol, pindolol, propranolol and metoprolol, ACE (angiotensinconverting enzyme) inhibitors such as benazepril, captopril, enalapril,fosinopril, lisinopril, quinapril and ramipril, calcium channel blockerssuch as nifedipine, felodipine, nicardipine, isradipine, nimodipine,diltiazem and verapamil, and a-blockers such as doxazosin, urapidil,prazosin and terazosin. Further reference can be made to Remington: TheScience and Practice of Pharmacy, 19th Edition, Gennaro, Ed., MackPublishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1995.

[0311] It should be understood that any suitable combination of thecompounds according to the invention with diet and/or exercise, one ormore of the above-mentioned compounds and optionally one or more otheractive substances are considered to be within the scope of the presentinvention.

[0312] Pharmaceutical Compositions

[0313] The compounds of the invention may be administered alone or incombination with pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients, ineither single or multiple doses. The pharmaceutical compositionsaccording to the invention may be formulated with pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers or diluents as well as any other known adjuvants andexcipients in accordance with conventional techniques such as thosedisclosed in Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 19^(th)Edition, Gennaro, Ed., Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa., 1995.

[0314] The pharmaceutical compositions may be specifically formulatedfor administration by any suitable route such as the oral, rectal,nasal, pulmonary, topical (including buccal and sublingual),transdermal, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, vaginal and parenteral(including subcutaneous, intramuscular, intrathecal, intravenous andintradermal) route, the oral route being preferred. It will beappreciated that the preferred route will depend on the generalcondition and age of the subject to be treated, the nature of thecondition to be treated and the active ingredient chosen.

[0315] Pharmaceutical compositions for oral administration include soliddosage forms such as capsules, tablets, dragees, pills, lozenges,powders and granules. Where appropriate, they can be prepared withcoatings such as enteric coatings or they can be formulated so as toprovide controlled release of the active ingredient such as sustained orprolonged release according to methods well known in the art.

[0316] Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include solutions,emulsions, suspensions, syrups and elixirs.

[0317] Pharmaceutical compositions for parenteral administration includesterile aqueous and non-aqueous injectable solutions, dispersions,suspensions or emulsions as well as sterile powders to be reconstitutedin sterile injectable solutions or dispersions prior to use. Depotinjectable formulations are also contemplated as being within the scopeof the present invention.

[0318] Other suitable administration forms include suppositories,sprays, ointments, cremes, gels, inhalants, dermal patches, implantsetc.

[0319] A typical oral dosage is in the range of from about 0.001 toabout 100 mg/kg body weight per day, preferably from about 0.01 to about50 mg/kg body weight per day, and more preferred from about 0.05 toabout 10 mg/kg body weight per day administered in one or more dosagessuch as 1 to 3 dosages. The exact dosage will depend upon the frequencyand mode of administration, the sex, age, weight and general conditionof the subject treated, the nature and severity of the condition treatedand any concomitant diseases to be treated and other factors evident tothose skilled in the art.

[0320] The formulations may conveniently be presented in unit dosageform by methods known to those skilled in the art. A typical unit dosageform for oral administration one or more times per day such as 1 to 3times per day may contain from 0.05 to about 1000 mg, preferably fromabout 0.1 to about 500 mg, and more preferred from about 0.5 mg to about200 mg.

[0321] For parenteral routes such as intravenous, intrathecal,intramuscular and similar administration, typically doses are in theorder of about half the dose employed for oral administration.

[0322] The compounds of this invention are generally utilized as thefree substance or as a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Oneexample is a base addition salt of a compound having the utility of afree acid. When a compound of the formula (I) contains a free acid suchsalts are prepared in a conventional manner by treating a solution orsuspension of a free acid of the formula (I) with a chemical equivalentof a pharmaceutically acceptable base. Representative examples arementioned above.

[0323] For parenteral administration, solutions of the novel compoundsof the formula (I) in sterile aqueous solution, aqueous propyleneglycol, aqueous vitamin E or sesame or peanut oil may be employed. Suchaqueous solutions should be suitably buffered if necessary and theliquid diluent first rendered isotonic with sufficient saline orglucose. The aqueous solutions are particularly suitable forintravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous and intraperitonealadministration. The sterile aqueous media employed are all readilyavailable by standard techniques known to those skilled in the art.

[0324] Suitable pharmaceutical carriers include inert solid diluents orfillers, sterile aqueous solution and various organic solvents. Examplesof solid carriers are lactose, terra alba, sucrose, cyclodextrin, talc,gelatine, agar, pectin, acacia, magnesium stearate, stearic acid andlower alkyl ethers of cellulose. Examples of liquid carriers are syrup,peanut oil, olive oil, phospho-lipids, fatty acids, fatty acid amines,polyoxyethylene and water. Similarly, the carrier or diluent may includeany sustained release material known in the art, such as glycerylmono-stearate or glyceryl distearate, alone or mixed with a wax. Thepharmaceutical compositions formed by combining the novel compounds ofthe formula (I) and the pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are thenreadily administered in a variety of dosage forms suitable for thedisclosed routes of administration. The formulations may conveniently bepresented in unit dosage form by methods known in the art of pharmacy.

[0325] Formulations of the present invention suitable for oraladministration may be presented as discrete units such as capsules ortablets, each containing a predetermined amount of the activeingredient, and which may include a suitable excipient. Furthermore, theorally available formulations may be in the form of a powder orgranules, a solution or suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid,or an oil-in-water or water-in-oil liquid emulsion.

[0326] If a solid carrier is used for oral administration, thepreparation may be tabletted, placed in a hard gelatine capsule inpowder or pellet form or it can be in the form of a troche or lozenge.The amount of solid carrier will vary widely but will usually be fromabout 25 mg to about 1 g. If a liquid carrier is used, the preparationmay be in the form of a syrup, emulsion, soft gelatine capsule orsterile injectable liquid such as an aqueous or non-aqueous liquidsuspension or solution.

[0327] A typical tablet that may be prepared by conventional tablettingtechniques may contain: Core: Active compound (as free compound or saltthereof)  5.0 mg Lactosum Ph. Eur. 67.8 mg Cellulose, microcryst.(Avicel) 31.4 mg Amberlite ® IRP88*  1.0 mg Magnesii stearas Ph. Eur.q.s. Coating: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose approx.   9 mg Mywacett 9-40T** approx.  0.9 mg

[0328] If desired, the pharmaceutical composition of the invention maycomprise the compound of the formula (I) in combination with furtherpharmacologically active substances such as those described in theforegoing.

EXAMPLES

[0329] The following examples and general procedures refer tointermediate compounds and final products identified in thespecification and in the synthesis schemes. The preparation of thecompounds of the present invention is described in detail using thefollowing examples, but the chemical reactions described are disclosedin terms of their general applicability to the preparation of theglucagon antagonists of the invention. Occasionally, the reaction maynot be applicable as described to each compound included within thedisclosed scope of the invention. The compounds for which this occurswill be readily recognised by those skilled in the art. In these casesthe reactions can be successfully performed by conventionalmodifications known to those skilled in the art, that is, by appropriateprotection of interfering groups, by changing to other conventionalreagents, or by routine modification of reaction conditions.Alternatively, other reactions disclosed herein or otherwiseconventional will be applicable to the preparation of the correspondingcompounds of the invention. In all preparative methods, all startingmaterials are known or may easily be prepared from known startingmaterials. All temperatures are set forth in degrees Celsius and unlessotherwise indicated, all parts and percentages are by weight whenreferring to yields and all parts are by volume when referring tosolvents and eluents.

[0330] Some of the NMR data shown in the following examples are onlyselected data.

[0331] In the examples and pharmacological methods the following termsare intended to have the following meanings: DCM: dichloromethane DMF:N,N-dimethylformamide DMSO: dimethyl sulphoxide M.p.: melting point TFA:trifluoroacetic acid THF: tetrahydrofuran EDAC:1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride HOBt:1-hydroxybenzotriazole HOAt:3-hydroxy-3H-[1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine, also denoted 1-hydroxy-7-azabenzotriazole EGTA: ethylene glycol bis(β-aminoethyl ether)N,N,N′,N′-tetracetic acid BSA: N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)acetimidate IBMX:isobutylmethylxanthine

[0332] HPLC-MS (Method A)

[0333] The following instrumentation was used:

[0334] Sciex API 100 Single quadropole mass spectrometer

[0335] Perkin Elmer Series 200 Quard pump

[0336] Perkin Elmer Series 200 autosampler

[0337] Applied Biosystems 785A UV detector

[0338] Sedex 55 evaporative light scattering detector

[0339] A Valco column switch with a Valco actuator controlled by timedevents from the pump.

[0340] The Sciex Sample control software running on a Macintosh PowerPC7200 computer was used for the instrument control and data acquisition.

[0341] The HPLC pump was connected to four eluent reservoirs containing:

[0342] A: acetonitrile

[0343] B: water

[0344] C: 0.5% TFA in water

[0345] D: 0.02 M ammonium acetate

[0346] The requirements for samples are that they contain approximately500 μg/mL of the compound to be analysed in an acceptable solvent suchas methanol, ethanol, acetonitrile, THF, water and mixtures thereof.(High concentrations of strongly eluting solvents will interfere withthe chromatography at low acetonitrile concentrations.)

[0347] The analysis was performed at room temperature by injecting 20 μLof the sample solution on the column, which was eluted with a gradientof acetonitrile in either 0.05% TFA or 0.002 M ammonium acetate.Depending on the analysis method varying elution conditions were used.

[0348] The eluate from the column was passed through a flow splittingT-connector, which passed approximately 20 μL/min through approx. 1 m.75μ fused silica capillary to the API interface of API 100 spectrometer.

[0349] The remaining 1.48 mL/min was passed through the UV detector andto the ELS detector.

[0350] During the LC-analysis the detection data were acquiredconcurrently from the mass spectrometer, the UV detector and the ELSdetector.

[0351] The LC conditions, detector settings and mass spectrometersettings used for the different methods are given in the followingtable. Column YMC ODS-A 120 Å s - 5μ 3 mm × 50 mm id Gradient 5%-90%acetonitrile in 0.05% TFA linearly during 7.5 min at 1.5 mL/minDetection UV: 214 nm     ELS: 40° C. MS Experiment:  Start: 100amu  Stop: 800 amu  Step: 0.2 amu Dwell:  0.571 msec Method:  Scan 284times = 9.5 min

[0352] HPLC-MS (Method B)

[0353] The following instrumentation was used:

[0354] Hewlett Packard series 1100 G1312A Bin Pump

[0355] Hewlett Packard series 1100 Column compartment

[0356] Hewlett Packard series 1100 G13 15A DAD diode array detector

[0357] Hewlett Packard series 1100 MSD

[0358] The instrument was controlled by HP Chemstation software.

[0359] The HPLC pump was connected to two eluent reservoirs containing:

[0360] A: 0.01% TFA in water

[0361] B: 0.01% TFA in acetonitrile

[0362] The analysis was performed at 40° C. by injecting an appropriatevolume of the sample (preferably 1 μL) onto the column, which was elutedwith a gradient of acetonitrile.

[0363] The HPLC conditions, detector settings and mass spectrometersettings used are given in the following table. Column Waters Xterra MSC-18 × 3 mm id Gradient 10%-100% acetonitrile lineary during 7.5 min at1.0 mL/min Detection UV: 210 nm (analog output from DAD) MS Ionisationmode: API-ES Scan 100-1000 amu step 0.1 amu

[0364] HPLC-MS (Method C)

[0365] The following instrumentation was used:

[0366] Hewlett Packard series 1100 G1312A Bin Pump

[0367] Hewlett Packard series 1100 G13 15A DAD diode array detector

[0368] Sciex 300 triplequadropole mass spectrometer

[0369] Gilson 215 micro injector

[0370] Sedex 55 evaporative light scattering detector

[0371] Pumps and detectors were controlled by MassChrom 1.1.1 softwarerunning on a Macintosh G3 computer. Gilson Unipoint Version 1.90controls the auto-injector.

[0372] The HPLC pump was connected to two eluent reservoirs containing:

[0373] A: 0.01% TFA in water

[0374] B: 0.01% TFA in acetonitrile

[0375] The analysis was performed at room temperature by injecting anappropriate volume of the sample (preferably 1 μL) onto the column thatwas eluted with a gradient of acetonitrile.

[0376] The HPLC conditions, detector settings and mass spectrometersettings are given in the following table. Column YMC ODS-A 120Å s 5μ 3mm × 50 mm id Gradient 5%-90% acetonitrile linearly during 7.5 min at1.5 mL/min Detection 210 nm (analog output from DAD) MS Ionisation mode:API-ES Scan 100-1000 amu step 0.1 amu

[0377] Preparation of Building Blocks Used in the Following Examples

[0378] Building Block 1: (RS)-Isoserine Ethyl Ester Hydrochloride

[0379] Dry ethanol (40 mL) was cooled on an ice bath and thionylchloride (4 mL) was added drop-wise maintaining the temperature below 5°C. To this cold solution was added (RS)-isoserine (2.5 g, 23.79 mmol)and stirring was continued until a homogeneous solution was obtained.The ice bath was removed and stirring was continued for 17 hours at roomtemperature. The solution was concentrated in vacuo to afford 4.0 g(100%) of (RS)-isoserine ethyl ester hydrochloride as an oil.

[0380]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.22 (t, 3H), 3.00 (dm, 2H), 4.15 (q, 2H),4.40 (dd, 1H), 6.30 (brs, 1H), 8.32 (br s, 2H). ¹³C-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ14.7 (q), 42.4 (t), 61.7 (t), 67.7 (d), 171 (s).

[0381] Building Block 2: (R)-Isoserine Ethyl Ester Hydrochloride

[0382] Step A: (R)-(2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)acetic Acid

[0383] To a suspension of D-(+)-malic acid (15.0 g 0.1119 mol) in drytoluene (150 mL) was added 2,2-dimethoxypropane (50 mL, 0.392 mmol). Themixture was refluxed at 100° C. for 2 hours and evaporated in vacuo. Theresidue was dissolved in diethyl ether (150 mL) and subjected to flashcolumn chromatography using diethyl ether as eluent (200 mL). The purefractions were pooled and evaporated in vacuo and the residue wasstirred in n-hexane. The precipitate was collected, washed with n-hexaneand dried to afford 15.7 g (81%) of(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)acetic acid as a solid.

[0384]¹H-NMR (Acetone-d₆): δ 1.57 (ds, 6H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 4.80 (dd, 1H),11.0 (br s, 1H). ¹³C-NMR (Acetone-d₆): δ 25.9 (q), 26.8 (q), 36.2 (t),71.5 (d), 111.2 (s), 170.7 (s), 172.7 (s).

[0385] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₇H₁₀O₅: C, 48.28%; H, 5.79%.Found: C, 48.31%; H, 6.09%.

[0386] Step B:(R)-(2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,31-dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamic Acid BenzylEster

[0387] A mixture of (R)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)aceticacid (10.0 g, 57.41 mmol), triethylamine (10 mL, 68.89 mmol) anddiphenylphosphoryl azide (14 mL, 63.15 mmol) in dry toluene (100 mL) washeated and stirred at 85° C. When the gas evolution had ceased stirringwas continued for an additional hour. Dry benzyl alcohol (6.3 mL, 63.15mmol) was added and heating was continued for 17 hours. Afterevaporation in vacuo, the residue was partitioned betweendichloromethane, water and brine. The aqueous phase was furtherextracted twice with dichloromethane. The combined organic phases werewashed twice with saturated sodium hydrogen carbonate. After drying(magnesium sulphate), filtration, and concentration in vacuo of theorganic phase, the residue was subjected to flash column chromatographywith dichloromethane as eluent. This afforded 6.4 g (40%) of(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamic acid benzylester as an oil.

[0388]¹H-NMR (Acetone-d₆): δ 1.56 (s, 6H), 3.61 (m, 2H), 4.64 (dd, 1H),5.08 (dd, 2H), 6.51 (br s, 1H), 7.29-7.38 (m, 5H).

[0389] Step C: (R)-3-Benzyloxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxypropionic Acid

[0390] To a solution of(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamic acid benzylester (6.0 g, 25.08 mmol) in acetonitrile (100 mL) was addedhydrochloric acid, (1 N, 100 mL). The mixture was stirred for 3 hours at40° C. and concentrated in vacuo to half the original volume. The solidwas collected by filtration and washed with water. The crude product wasstirred for 5 min in acetone (100 mL) and filtered. Toluene was added tothe clear and colorless filtrate and the whole was concentrated in vacuountil a precipitate was obtained. The precipitate was collected byfiltration and dried to afford 4.45 g (87%) of(R)-3-benzyloxy-carbonylamino-2-hydroxypropionic acid.

[0391]¹H-NMR(Acetone-d₆): δ 3.45 (ddd, 1H), 3.58 (ddd, 1H), 4.29 (dd,1H), 5.08 (s, 2H), 6.41 (brs, 1H), 7.29-7.38 (m, 5H). ¹³C-NMR(Acetone-d₆): δ 45.1 (t), 66.4 (t), 70.4 (d), 128.3 (d), 128.9 (d),138.0 (d), 157.2 (s), 173.8 (s); HPLC-MS (Method C): m/z=262 (M+Na⁺);R_(t)=2.20 min. M.p. 131-132° C.

[0392] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₁₁H₁₃NO₅: C, 55.23%; H, 5.48%; N,5.85%. Found: C, 55.35%; H, 5.72%; N, 5.82%.

[0393] Step D: (R)-Isoserine

[0394] (R)-3-Benzyloxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxypropionic acid (4.4 g,18.39 mmol) was dissolved in absolute ethanol (150 mL). Under a nitrogenatmosphere palladium on activated carbon (10%, 0.5 g) was added, and themixture was hydrogenated at 1 atmosphere for 17 hours. The catalyst wasfiltered off and washed with water. The combined filtrate and washingswere concentrated to about 20 mL by evaporation in vacuo. A precipitatewas obtained by drop-wise addition of methanol (100 mL). The precipitatewas filtered off, washed with methanol and dried to afford 1.78 g (92%)of (R)-isoserine as a solid.

[0395]¹H-NMR (D₂O): δ 3.07 (dd, 1H), 3.30 (dd, 1H), 4.19 (dd, 1H).¹³C-NMR (D₂O): 843.0 (t), 68.9 (d), 177.5 (s). M.p. 200-201° C.

[0396] Step E: (R)-Isoserine Ethyl Ester Hydrochloride

[0397] The compound was prepared in analogy with the method outlinedabove for (RS)-isoserine ethyl ester hydrochloride.

[0398]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.22 (t, 3H), 2.88 (dd, 1H), 3.10 (dd, 1H),4.14 (q, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 6.32 (d, 1H), 8.28 (br s, 2H). ¹³C-NMR(DMSO-d₆): δ 13.9 (q), 41.4 (t), 60.7 (t), 66.9 (d), 170.9 (s).

[0399] Building Block 3:(S)-2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]-dioxolan-4-ylmethylammoniumtrifluoroacetate

[0400] Step A: (S)-(2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)acetic Acid

[0401] To a suspension of L-malic acid (3 g, 22.4 mmol) in toluene (25mL) was added 2,2-dimethoxypropane (8.5 g, 81 mmol). The suspension washeated to reflux for 20 min. The solvent was removed by evaporation invacuo to afford (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo [1,3]-4-yl)-acetic acid.

[0402]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.52 (6H, d), 2.75 (2H, t), 4.78 (1H, t),12.52 (1H, br s).

[0403] Step B: (S)-(2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamicAcid Benzyl Ester

[0404] To (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)acetic acid (1 g,5.7 mmol) and triethylamine (0.66 g, 6.5 mmol) in toluene (20 mL) wasadded phosphorazidic acid diphenyl ester (1.7 g, 6.2 mmol). The solutionwas heated to reflux for 1 hour. Benzyl alcohol (0.54 g, 5 mmol) wasadded and reflux was maintained for additional 6 hours. After cooling,the solution was partitioned between ethyl acetate (2×50 mL) and aqueoussodium hydrogen carbonate (10%, 2×50 mL). The organic layers werecollected, dried (sodium sulphate) and the solvent removed byevaporation in vacuo to afford 976 mg of crude(S)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamic acid benzylester as an oil.

[0405]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.53 (6H, d), 3.34 (1H, m), 3.50 (1H, m), 4.50(1H, d), 4.64 (1H, t), 5.03 (2H, d), 7.32 (5H, m)

[0406] Step C: (S)-2,2-Dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethylammoniumTrifluoroacetate

[0407] The crude(S)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)carbamic acid benzylester (976 mg, 3.5 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (14 mL), and palladium(10% on activated charcoal, 300 mg) and 1,3-cyclohexadiene (2.8 g, 35mmol) were added and the reaction was stirred for 1 hour at roomtemperature, and heated to 40° C. for 10 min. After filtration, TFA (0.4g, 3.5 mmol) was added and the solvent was removed by evaporation toafford crude (S)-2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethylammoniumtrifluoroacetate as an oil.

[0408]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.46 (6H, d), 3.40-3.70 (2H, m), 4.38 (1H, m),7.25 (>4H, br s); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=146 (M⁺); R_(t)=0.38 min.

[0409] Building Block 4: 3-Amino-2-fluoropropionic acid methyl ester Drymethanol (5.3 mL) was cooled to −15° C. on an ice bath and thionylchloride (2.5 mL) was added dropwise maintaining the temperature below5° C. To this cold solution was added (RS)-3-amino-2-fluoropropionicacid (0.27 g, 2.52 mmol) and stirring was continued until a homogeneoussolution was obtained. The ice bath was removed and stirring wascontinued for 17 hours at room temperature. The solution wasconcentrated in vacuo and further co-evaporated three times with drymethanol. The residue was filtered off, washed with DCM and dried toafford 0.13 g (33%) of 3-amino-2-fluoropropionic acid methyl esterhydrochloride as a solid.

[0410]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.36 (m, 2H), 3.76 (s, 3H), 5.51(d, 2H), 8.59(br s, 3H).

[0411] Building Block 5: 3-Amino-2(R)-methoxypropionic Acid Methyl EsterHydrochloride

[0412] Step (A): (R)-2-Hydroxysuccinic Acid Dimethyl Ester

[0413] To an ice cooled solution of methanol (250 mL) was added acetylchloride (12.5 mL), and the solution was stirred for 1 hour at 0° C.(R)-Malic acid (20.0 g) was added, and the solution was stirred for 16hours at room temperature. Solvent was removed by evaporation in vacuoleaving a quantitative yield of (R)-2-hydroxysuccinic acid dimethylester as an oil.

[0414]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 4.52 (dd, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.71 (s, 3H), 3.55(bs, 1H), 2.88 (dd, 1H), 2.80 (dd, 1H).

[0415] Step (B): (R)-2-Methoxysuccinic Acid Dimethyl Ester

[0416] The above (R)-2-hydroxysuccinic acid dimethyl ester wasre-dissolved in methyl iodide (100 mL), freshly prepared silver oxide(30.2 g) was added and the mixture was stirred for 24 hours at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was diluted with acetonitrile (200mL), and filtered through celite to remove silver salts and excesssilver hydroxide. The filtrate was taken to dryness to leave(R)-2-methoxysuccinic acid dimethyl ester as an oil (23.2 g, 88%).

[0417]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 4.20 (dd, 1H), 3.78 (s, 3H), 3.71 (s, 3H), 3.48(s, 3H), 2.80 (dd, 2H).

[0418] Step (C): (R)-2-Methoxysuccinic acid 1-methyl Ester

[0419] The above (R)-2-methoxysuccinic acid dimethyl ester was suspendedin 2 N aqueous hydrochloric acid, and heated to reflux for 30 min togive a clear solution. Upon evaporation of solvent in vacuo aquantitative yield of 2(R)-methoxysuccinic acid was obtained as an oil.The oil was redissolved in acetic anhydride (120 mL) and heated to 110°C. for 2 hours. Solvent was removed by rotary evaporation to leave anoil. Ice cooled methanol (150 mL) was added, and the mixture was stirredfor 3 hours at 0° C. followed by 16 hours at room temperature. Thesolvent was removed to leave (R)-2-methoxysuccinic acid 1-methyl ester.

[0420]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 10.30 (bs, 1H), 4.19 (dd, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H),3.50 (s, 3H), 2.86 (dd, 1H), 2.78 (dd, 1H).

[0421] Step (D): 3-tert-Butoxycarbonylamino-2(R)-methoxypropionic AcidMethyl Ester

[0422] Without further purification, the above (R)-2-methoxysuccinicacid 1-methyl ester (5.0 g, 30.8 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride(16 mL), and heated to reflux for 2 hours Thionyl chloride and tracesthereof was removed by rotary evaporation followed by co-evaporationwith acetonitrile.

[0423]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 3.27 (dd, 1H), 3.48 (dd, 1H), 3.51 (s, 3H), 3.80(s, 3H), 4.22 (dd, 1H).

[0424] The neat acid chloride was dissolved in toluene (50 mL).Trimethylsilylazide (5.0 mL, 38.2 mmol) was added and the mixture washeated to 100° C. overnight. Then tert-butanol (30 mL) was added, andheating was continued for an additional 16 hours. The reaction mixturewas cooled and insoluble material was removed by filtration. The organicphase was washed with water (100 mL), saturated sodium hydrogencarbonate solution (100 mL), 10% citric acid solution (100 mL), water(100 mL) and saturated sodium chloride solution (100 mL), then driedover anhydrous sodium sulphate. Solvent was removed by rotaryevaporation. The residual oil was further purified by columnchromatography using 20% ethyl acetate/heptane as eluent. Pure fractions(TLC plates were stained with ammonium molybdate/ceriumsulphate/sulphuric acid) were pooled and taken to dryness. The finalyield of 3-tert-butoxy-carbonylamino-2(R)-methoxypropionic acid methylester was 600 mg (9%).

[0425]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 6.93 (t, 1H), 3.83 (t, 1H), 3.64 (s, 3H), 3.25(s, 3H), 3.18 (dd, 2H), 1.36 (s, 9H).

[0426] Step (E): 3-Amino-2(R)-methoxypropionic Acid Methyl EsterHydrochloride

[0427] 3-tert-Butoxycarbonylamino-2-methoxypropionic acid methyl ester(500 mg, 2 mmol) was dissolved in 10% TFA in DCM (20 mL), and thereaction mixture was stirred at 30 min at ambient temperature. Solventwas removed and the residue co-evaporated twice from 30 mL of 1 Nhydrochloric acid in ether. Yield: 320 mg (88%).

[0428]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 8.25 (s, 3H), 4.21 (dd, 1H), 3.71 (s, 3H), 3.40(s, 3H), 3.15 (m, 1H), 2.98 (m, 1H).

[0429] Building Block 6:(R)-3-(9H-Fluoren-9-ylmethoxycarbonylamino)-2-hydroxypropionic Acid((R)-Fmoc-isoserine

[0430] To (R)-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo[1,3]dioxolan-4-yl)acetic acid (5.88 g,33.8 mmol) was added toluene (100 mL), triethylamine (4.7 mL, 33.8 mmol)and diphenoxyphosphoryl azide (8.0 mL, 37.2 mmol). The reaction mixturewas heated to a 100° C. and stirred under nitrogen at this temperaturefor 1.5 hour. 9-Fluorenemethanol (5.1 g, 26 mmol) was added and thereaction mixture was refluxed for 6 hours. After cooling to roomtemperature the mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel andwashed with water (2×50 mL). The solvent was removed in vacuo andco-evaporated with acetonitrile (100 mL). The remaining light brown oilwas dissolved in DCM (20 mL) and purified on silica gel column with DCMas eluent. The DCM was removed by evaporation to yield a light yellowoil, which was redissolved in acetonitrile (150 mL) and aqueoushydrochloric acid was added (1 N, 75 mL). The yellow reaction mixturewas stirred for 3 hours at room temperature. The solvent was removed invacuo, toluene (100 mL) was added and the suspension was heated toreflux and allowed to cool to room temperature. (R)-Fmoc-isoserine (3.1g, 28%) was isolated as a powder by filtration. Mp: 165-166° C.

[0431]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.5 (brs, 1H), 7.90 (m, 2H), 7.70 (m, 2H),7.50-7.30 (m, 4H), 5.45 (br s, 1H), 4.23 (m, 3H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 3.17 (m,1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=350 (M+Na); R_(t)=3.20 min.

[0432] Building Block 7:3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl Amine

[0433] Step A: 5-Nitro-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic Acid Methyl Ester

[0434] In a three-necked round bottom flask, equipped with a thermometerand a separatory funnel, HNO₃ (5 mL fuming, 100%) was cooled in an icebath. Methyl 2-(trifluoromethoxy)benzoate (5 g, 22.7 mmol) was slowlyadded to the cooled HNO₃ within 0.5 hour while keeping the temperaturebelow 15° C. The reaction was then stirred at 60° C. for 1 hour and 2hours at room temperature. The mixture was added to ice water and an oilseparated. The oily residue was added water (50 mL), neutralised with anaqueous solution of sodium hydrogen carbonate and then extracted withethyl acetate (25 mL). The aqueous phase was extracted with ethylacetate (15 mL) once more. The combined organic phases were washed withsaturated sodium chloride (2×15 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate), andconcentrated in vacuo to give 5.69 g of5-nitro-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester.

[0435]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.93 (3H, s), 7.82 (1H, d), 8.58 (1H, d), 8.67(1H, s).

[0436] Step B: 5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic Acid Methyl Ester

[0437] 5-Nitro-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester (5.69 g, 21.5mmol) was dissolved in ethanol 99.9% (80 mL) and addedstannous(II)chloride dihydrate (24.2 g, 107 mmol). The suspension wasstirred at 75° C. for 2 hours and then concentrated in vacuo. Theresidue was added ethyl acetate (100 mL) and water (50 mL) and pH wasadjusted to pH 8 with 4 N sodium hydroxide (50 mL). The liquid wasdecanted from the fine precipitation, which occurred, and theprecipitate was washed with ethyl acetate and decanted twice. Thecombinde organic phases were washed with water:saturated sodium chloride(1:1) solution (2×100 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentratedin vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography (120 gsilica) using ethyl acetate:heptane (1:1) as eluent to give 3.8 g of5-amino-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester.

[0438]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.82 (3H, s), 5.63 (2H, s), 6.79 (1H, d), 7.07(1H, s), 7.11 (1H, d).

[0439] Step C: (5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)methanol

[0440] 5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester (3.0 g, 12.8mmol) was dissolved under nitrogen in THF (20 mL) in a three-neckedflask equipped with a thermometer and a separatory funnel. With stirringand ice-cooling lithium aluminium hydride (1 M in THF, 15 mL) was addeddropwise over 10 min. Stirring was continued at room temperature for 1hour, and the reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuo. The residuewas suspended in DCM (150 mL) and water (50 mL), and filtered throughcelite. The filtrate was partitioned between DCM and water. The combinedorganic phases were washed with water (2×20 mL), dried (magnesiumsulphate) and concentrated in vacuo to give 2.47 g of(5-amino-2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)methanol

[0441]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.92 (2H, d), 5.18 (1H, t), 5.28 (2H, s), 6.45(1H, d), 6.91 (1H, d).

[0442] Step (D):3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylaniline

[0443] (5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)methanol (1.2 g, 5.8 mmol) wasdissolved in DMF (5 mL) and imidazole (0.48 g, 7.1 mmol) andtert-butyldimethylsilylchloride (0.99 g, 6.6 mmol) were added and themixture was stirred for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was extractedwith ethyl acetate (50 mL) and water (20 mL). The aqueous phase wasextracted once more with ethyl acetate (20 mL). The combined organicphases were washed with water (10 mL), aqueous citric acid (10 mL, 10%)and water (2×10 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated invacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography (110 g, silicagel) using ethyl acetate and heptane (1:3) as eluent to give 1.2 g of3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylaniline.

[0444]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (9H, s), 3.25 (6H, s), 4.52 (2H, s), 5.23(2H, s), 6.41 (1H, d), 6.61 (1H, s), 6.86 (1H, d).

[0445] Building Block 8: 4-Cyclohex-1-enylaniline

[0446] This compound was prepared similarly as described in J. v. Braunet al., J. Liebigs Ann. Chem., 472 (1929), 1-89, from refluxing aniline(2 equivalents), cyclohexanone (1 equivalent) in ethanol and 37%hydrochloric acid for 4-5 days, followed by addition of ethyl acetate,water, and sodium hydroxide, neutralisation with 85% phosphoric acid,phase separation, and distillation of the organic phase. The residue wasadded a catalytic amount of sulfuric acid and distilled (180° C., 5-7mbar). The distillate was redistilled (120° C., 3 mbar) to afford (inthe residue) the desired 4-cyclohex-1-enylaniline.

[0447]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.50-1.60 (m, 2H), 1.60-1.70 (m, 2H),2.10-2.15 (m, 2H), 2.20-2.30 (brd s, 2H), 5.00 (s, 2H), 5.90 (t, 1H),6.50 (d, 2H), 7.10 (d, 2H).

[0448] Building Block 9: 4-Cyclohexylaniline

[0449] This compound is commercially available (e.g. from Lancaster orAvocado).

[0450] Building Block 10: 4-Cyclohexylcyclohexylamine

[0451] The preparation of this compound is described in the literature,see H. Booth et al., J. Chem. Soc. (B), 1971, 1047-1050.

[0452] Building Block 11: 4-(2-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline

[0453] A mixture of 2-methyl-cyclohexanone (112 g, 1,0 mol), aniline(186 g, 2 mol) and ethanol (26 mL) was stirred at room temperature and12 M hydrochloric acid (167 mL) was added during 30 min. The dark yellowsolution was refluxed at 85° C. for seven days. The solution was cooledand diluted with ethyl acetate. The mixture was stirred in an ice bathand made alkaline (pH=9) with a 27% sodium hydroxide solution, keepingthe temperature below 30° C.

[0454] The organic layer was separated and washed with brine (3×), driedover magnesium sulphate, and concentrated to give a brown oil (131 g).Excess of aniline was removed under reduced pressure. A catalytic amountof 12 M hydrochloric acid (1 mL) was added, and the residue wasfractionated under high vacuum. The fraction distilling at 145-175° C.(0,2 mmHg) was collected and subjected to column chromatography (silicagel) and eluated with 30% ethyl acetate/toluene to afford a 9:1 mixture(8.7 g) of 4-(2-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline, respectively.

[0455] 4-(2-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline:

[0456]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.53 (s, 3H), 1.61 (m, 4H), 2.00 (bs, 2H),2.13 (bs, 2H), 4.92 (s, 2H), 6.50 (d, 2H), 6.79 (d, 2H); HPLC-MS (MethodB): m/z=188 (M⁺); R_(t)=2.96 min.

[0457] (R,S)-4-(6-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline:

[0458]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.88 (d, 3H), 1.61 (m, 4H), 2.00 (bs, 2H),2.13 (bs, 2H), 2.74 (m, 1H), 4.92 (s, 2H), 5.68 (t, 1H), 6.50 (d, 2H),6.79 (d, 2H).

[0459] Building Block 12: 4-(4-tert-Butylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline

[0460] 4-(4-tert-Butylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline was prepared in analogy toprocedure for preparation of building block 11 using4-tert-butylcyclohexanone (0.59 mol) and aniline.

[0461]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.88 (s, 9H), 1.21 (m, 2H), 1.90 (m,2H),2.10-2.50 (m, 3H), 4.97 (s, 2H), 5.90 (m, 1H), 6.50 (d, 2H), 7.06 (d,2H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=230 (M⁺); R_(t)=4.07 min.

[0462] Building Block 13: (R,S)-4-(5-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(3-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline

[0463] A mixture of (R,S)-3-methylcyclohexanone (123 mL, 1.0 mol),aniline (182 mL, 2.0 mol), 12 M hydrochloric acid (167 mL, 2.0 mol), andethanol (26 mL) was refluxed at 90° C. for ten days. The solution wascooled and diluted with ethyl acetate. The aqueous layer was madealkaline (pH=10) with a 6 M sodium hydroxide solution. The organic layerwas separated and washed with brine (3×), dried over magnesium sulphate,and concentrated to give a brown oil. Excess of aniline was removedunder reduced pressure. A catalytic amount of 12 M hydrochloric acid (1mL) was added, and the residue was fractionated under high vacuum. Thefraction distilling at 123-128° C. (0.15-0.20 mmHg) was collected toafford 21.0 g of an oil. ¹H-NMR showed presence of a 3:2 mixture of(R,S)-4-(5-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(3-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline, respectively.

[0464] (R,S)-4-(5-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline:

[0465]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.00 (d, 3H), 1.45-1.95 (m, 3H), 2.10-2.45 (m,3H), 5.04 (s, 2H), 5.86 (t, 1H), 6.48 (d, 2H), 7.06 (d, 2H).

[0466] (R,S)-4-(3-Methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline:

[0467]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.00 (d, 3H), 1.45-1.95 (m, 3H), 2.10-2.45 (m,3H), 5.04 (s, 2H), 5.75 (d, 1H), 6.48 (d, 2H), 7.06 (d, 2H).

[0468] General Procedure (A) for Solution Phase Synthesis of Compoundsof the General Formulae (Ia) and (Ib):

[0469] wherein R², R³, R⁷, R⁸, A, E and D are as defined for formula(I).

[0470] Compounds made according to this general procedure (A) can eitherbe prepared via the ester route or the carboxylic acid route. The onlydifference between these two routes is the protection of the benzoicacid as an ester. The deprotection of the ester (step 2a) providesintermediates identical with those of the carboxylic acid route.

[0471] This procedure according to the ester route is illustrated inexamples 1 and 2 and according to the carboxylic acid route in example3.

Example 1 General Procedure (A)

[0472](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0473] Step 1: 4-((4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic Acid MethylEster

[0474] 4-Formylbenzoic acid methyl ester (6.65 g, 40.5 mmol) wasdissolved in hot methanol (175 mL). To this mixture, 4-cyclohexylaniline(7.1 g, 40.5 mmol) was added. To the resulting suspension, more methanol(75 mL) was added and the mixture was heated at reflux for 1 hour. Aftercooling to 0° C., the mixture was filtered and the solid was washed withice-cold methanol and dried in vacuo at 40° C. for 16 hours to afford10.95 g of 4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylimino)methyl]benzoic acid methyl ester.This compound (10.93 g, 34 mmol) was suspended in methanol (200 mL) andglacial acetic acid (27 mL) was added followed by sodium cyanoborohydride (1.9 g, 30 mmol) in small portions. The mixture was stirredat room temperature for 1 hour and concentrated in vacuo. The residuewas dissolved in DCM (200 mL) and washed with 5% aqueous sodiumcarbonate (5×80 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated invacuo. The residue was added ethyl acetate (100 mL) and n-heptane (200mL) and concentrated in vacuo to half the original volume. The solid wasfiltered, washed with n-heptane and dried in vacuo at 40° C. for 16hours to afford 9.52 g (87%) of4-((4-cyclo-hexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic acid methyl ester.

[0475]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.2-1.4 (5H, m), 1.65 (5H, m), 2.30 (1H, t),3.84 (3H, s), 4.30 (2H, d), 6.18 (1H, t), 6.50 (2H, d), 6.87 (2H, d),7.49 (2H, d), 7.92 (2H, d); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=324 (M+1);R_(t)=7.18 min.

[0476] Step 2:4-[1-(Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0477] 5-Methoxy-3-(trifluoromethyl)aniline (2.0 g, 10.5 mmol) wasdissolved in ethyl acetate (10 mL), and dry HCl in ethyl acetate (15 mL)was added and the solvent was removed in vacuo.

[0478] The solid was co-evaporated with toluene (3×15 mL). Toluene (75mL) and diphosgene (13 mL) were added and the reaction mixture wasrefluxed under a nitrogen atmosphere for 2.5 hours. Excess diphosgenewas removed in vacuo and the clear oil was co-evaporated with toluene.The obtained isocyanate was used without further purification.

[0479] The above isocyanate was dissolved in DCM (75 mL) and4-((4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic acid methyl ester (2.3 g, 7.1mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight at roomtemperature, the solvent was removed in vacuo and the residual oil waspurified by column chromatography on silica gel, eluting with a mixtureof heptane and ethyl acetate (7:3). This afforded 3 g of4-[1-(cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester as an oil.

[0480]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.22 (broad, 1H), 1.37 (broad, 4H), 1.7(broad, 1H), 1.79 (broad, 4H), 3.77 (s, 3H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 4.98 (s, 2H),6.81 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.23 (d, 2H), 7.42 (m, 3H), 7.51 (s, 1H),7.90 (d, 2H), 8.53 (s, 1H), 10.01 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=541(M+1); R_(t)=8.98 min.

[0481] Step 2a:4-[1-(Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0482]4-[1-(Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester (3.0 g) was dissolved in absolute ethanol (50 mL),sodium hydroxide (4 N, 15 mL) was added and the reaction mixture wasstirred at room temperature for 16 hours. The organic solvent wasremoved in vacuo, and additional water (50 mL) was added, pH wasadjusted with hydrochloric acid (4 N) to acidic reaction and then ethylacetate (200 mL) was added. The organic phase was washed with water(5×50 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate), filtered and evaporated in vacuo.The residue was recrystallised from acetonitrile (25 mL) to afford4-[1-(cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (1.83 g) as crystals.

[0483]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.22 (m, 1H), 1.37 (m, 4H), 1.70 (m, 1H), 1.79(m, 4H), 3.77 (s, 3H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.81 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.23(d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.51 (s, 1H), 7.89 (d, 2H), 8.55(s, 1H), 12.90 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=527 (M+1); R_(t)=8.23min; M.p. 148-150° C.

[0484] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₉H₂₉N₂F₃O₄: C, 66.15%; H 5.55%; N5.32%. Found: C, 66.65%; H 5.70%; N 5.33%.

[0485] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0486]4-[1-(Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (420 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (10 mL), and then HOBt (160mg, 1.2 mmol) and EDAC (230 mg, 1.2 mmol) were added. The reactionmixture was allowed to stand for 30 min, then (R)-isoserine ethyl ester(260 mg, 1.2 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (210 mL, 1.2 mmol)dissolved in DMF (5 mL) were added and the reaction mixture was stirredat room temperature for 16 hours. Water (50 mL) and ethyl acetate (100mL) were added and the organic phase was washed with water (5×50 mL),dried (magnesium sulphate), filtered and evaporated in vacuo. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography on silica gel, elutingwith a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (1:3) to afford 510 mg of(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester as an amorphous solid.

[0487]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.12 (t, 3H), 1.22 (m, 1H), 1.37 (m, 4H), 1.70(m, 1H), 1.79 (broad, 4H), 3.41 (m, 1H), 3.52 (m, 1H), 3.77 (s, 3H),4.06 (q, 2H), 4.21 (q,1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 5.68 (d, 1H), 6.81 (s, 1H),7.18 (d, 2H), 7.23 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.51 (s, 1H),7.77 (d, 2H), 8.47 (t, 1H), 8.53 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=658(M+1); R_(t)=8.17 min.

[0488] Step 4:

[0489](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester was dissolved in ethanol (15 mL) and sodium hyroxide (2N, 2 mL) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperaturefor 60 min. Then ethanol was removed in vacuo, water (50 mL) was addedand pH was adjusted with 4 N hydrochloric acid to acidic reaction.Filtration and washing with water (5×5 mL) and drying in vacuo afforded460 mg of the title compound as a crystalline solid.

[0490]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.22 (m, 1H), 1.37 (m, 4H), 1.70 (m, 1H), 1.79(broad, 4H), 3.37 (m, 1H), 3.51 (m, 1H), 3.77 (s, 3H), 4.09 (t, 1H),4.95 (s, 2H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.23 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H),7.42 (s, 1H), 7.51 (s, 1H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 8.47 (t, 1H), 8.53(s, 1H);HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=614 (M+1); R_(t)=7.67 min.

[0491] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₂H₃₄N₃F₃O₆ (+1.25H₂O): C, 60.42%;H, 5.78%; N, 6.61%. Found: C, 60.25%; H, 5.55%; N, 6.50%.

Example 2 General Procedure (A)

[0492](R)-3-{4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0493] Step 2:4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0494] 4-((4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic acid methyl ester(2.38 g, 7.36 mmol) was dissolved in DCM (150 mL) and3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl isocyanate (1.36 mL, 8.10 mmol) was addedand the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. Thereaction mixture was washed with water (3×15 mL), dried (magnesiumsulphate) and concentrated in vacuo to afford 4.3 g of4-[3-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester.

[0495]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.17-1.44 (m, 5H), 1.66-1.82 (m, 5H), 3.83 (s,3H), 4.98 (s, 2H, 7.20-7.28 (m, 4H), 7.44 (d, 2H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.93(d, 2H), 8.24 (s, 2H), 8.94 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=579 (M+1);R_(t)=9.50 min.

[0496] Step 2a:4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0497]4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester (4.2 g, 7.36 mmol) was suspended in ethanol (80 mL)and added sodium hydroxide (4 N, 11 mL) and stirred at room temperaturefor 16 hours. The reaction mixture was concentrated to dryness in vacuo,and the residue was added water (50 mL) and acidified with hydrochloricacid (4 N, 12 mL). The aqueous phase was extracted twice with ethylacetate (75 mL and 25 mL) and the combined organic phases were washedwith water (3×15 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated invacuo to afford4-[3-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid.

[0498]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.32-1.43 (m, 5H), 1.7 (m, 1H), 1.75-1.85(5H), 4.98 (s, 2H), 7.20-7.28 (m, 4H), 7.4 (d, 2H), 7.61 (d, 1H), 7.88(d, 2H), 8.25 (s, 2H), 8.93 (s, 1H), 12.90 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=565 (M+1); R_(t)=8.65 min; M.p. 148.5-149.5 (C.

[0499] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₉H₂₆F₆N₂O₃: C, 61.70%; H, 4.64%;N, 4.96%. Found: C, 61.54%; H, 4.71%; N, 4.92%.

[0500] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0501]4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (0.22 g, 0.39 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and1-hydroxy-7-azabenzotriazole (0.06 g, 0.47 mmol) and EDAC (0.09 g, 1.2mmol) were added. The mixture was stirred for 1.5 hour, and(R)-isoserine ethyl ester (0.10 g, 0.59 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine(0.10 mL, 0.59 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) were added. The mixture was stirredat room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was diluted withwater (10 mL) and extracted with ethyl acetate (25 mL). The aqueousphase was extracted with ethyl acetate (10 mL). The combined organicphases were washed with hydrochloric acid (0.2 N, 3×10 mL) andwater:saturated sodium chloride (1:1), dried (magnesium sulphate) andconcentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography(35 g silica gel) using ethyl acetate and n-heptane (6:4) as eluent toafford 0.27 g of(R)-3-{4-[3-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester.

[0502]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.14 (t, 3H), 1.19-1.42 (m, 5H), 1.67-1.85 (m,5H), 3.38-3.48 (m, 1H), 3.49-3.57 (m,1H), 4.08 (q, 2H), 4.20 (m, 1H),4.97 (s, 2H), 5.67 (d, 1H), 7.20-7.27 (m, 4H), 7.36 (d, 2H), 7.62 (s,1H), 7.75 (d, 2H), 8.24 (s, 2H), 8.48 (t, 1H), 8.90 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS(Method A): m/z=680 (M+1); R_(t)=8.42 min.

[0503] Step 4:

[0504](R)-3-{4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester (0.26 g, 0.38 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (96%, 15mL) and added sodium hydroxide (4 N, 0.57 mL, 2.3 mmol). After stirringat 25° C. for 1 hour the mixture was evaporated in vacuo, and theresidue was added water (30 mL) and acidified with hydrochloric acid (4N, 0.62 mL). The aqueous phase was extracted twice with ethyl acetate(25 mL and 10 mL) and the combined organic phases were washed withsaturated sodium chloride:water (1:1), dried (magnesium sulphate) andconcentrated in vacuo to afford 0.21 g of the title compound.

[0505]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.21-1.45 (m, 5H), 1.66-1.86 (m, 5H),3.37-3.44 (m, 1H), 3.53-3.60 (m, 1H), 4.18 (t, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H),7.18-7.27 (m, 4H), 7.45 (d, 2H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 8.24 (s,2H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 8.90 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=652 (M+1);R_(t)=7.93 min.

Example 3 General Procedure (A)

[0506](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxy-propionicAcid

[0507] Step 1: 4-[(4-Cyclohexylpheneylamino)methyl]benzoic Acid

[0508] 4-Cyclohexylaniline (8.0 g, 53 mmol) was dissolved in methanol(200 mL) and a suspension of 4-formylbenzoic acid (9.4 g, 53 mmol) inglacial acetic acid (12 mL) was added in portions and the resultingmixture was heated at reflux temperature for 1.5 hour. After cooling toroom temperature a mixture of sodium cyano borohydride (5.0 g, 80 mmol)in methanol (100 mL) was added in portions, and the resulting mixturewas stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. The mixture was filteredand washed thoroughly with water and dried in vacuo at 50° C. for 3 daysto afford 12.8 g (78%) of 4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoicacid.

[0509]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.1-1.35 (5H, m), 1.65-1.75 (5H, m), 2.29 (1H,m), 4.31 (2H, s), 6.15 (1H, bs), 6.45 (2H, d), 6.89 (2H, d), 7.46 (2H,d), 7.88 (2H, d).

[0510] Step 2:4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoic Acid

[0511] 3-Bromoaniline (1.4 g, 8.1 mmol) was dissolved in diethyl ether(50 mL) and 3.5 M dry HCl in ethyl acetate (2.3 mL) was added. Themixture was concentrated in vacuo. The residue was added toluene (100mL) and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was added toluene (100 mL)and diphosgene (8.1 g, 41 mmol) and the resulting mixture was refluxedfor 1.5 hour. After cooling, the mixture was concentrated in vacuo. Theresidue was dissolved in toluene (100 mL) and concentrated in vacuo. Theresidue was dissolved in DMF (30 mL) and4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acid (1.3 g, 4.1 mmol) wasadded. The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16 hours. Themixture was added ethyl acetate (150 mL) and washed with water:brine(1:1) (2×100 mL). The organic phase was dried with sodium sulphate andconcentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatographyon silica gel eluting first with a mixture of ethylacetate:n-heptane:triethylamine (7:2:1), then with ethyl acetate andfinally with methanol to afford 1.95 g (94%) of4-[3-(3-bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoic acid.

[0512]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.2-1.4 (5H, m), 1.7-1.8 (5H, m), 4.94 (2H, s),7.1-7.25 (6H, m), 7.30 (2H, d), 7.44 (1H, d), 7.78 (1H, t), 7.83 (2H,d), 8.38 (1H, s); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=507 (M+1); R_(t)=5.52 min.

[0513] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0514] 4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (0.20 g, 0.39 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2.5 mL) and EDAC (0.12 g,0.6 mmol) and HOBt (0.089 mg, 0.6 mmol) were added and the mixture wasstirred at room temperature for 10 min. (R)-Isoserine ethyl esterhydrochloride (0.10 g, 0.6 mmol) and N,N-diisopropylethylamine (130 μL)dissolved in DMF (2.5 mL) were added and the resulting mixture wasstirred at room temperature for 16 hours. The mixture was added ethylacetate (70 mL) and washed with water (2×100 mL), the organic phase wasdried with sodium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue waspurified by column chromatography on silica gel eluting with a mixtureof ethyl acetate:n-heptane (1:2) containing 10% acetic acid. Thisafforded 100 mg of(R)-3-{4-[3-(3-bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester.

[0515] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=624 (M+1); R_(t)=5.33 min.

[0516] Step 4:(R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzovlamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0517](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester (100 mg) was dissolved in ethanol (10 mL), 1 N sodiumhydroxide (480 μL) was added and the resulting mixture was stirred atroom temperature for 1 hour. 1 N Hydrochloric acid (480 μL) was addedand the mixture was concentrated in vacuo. The residue was suspended inwater (50 mL) and filtered to afford 38 mg of the title compound.

[0518]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.2-1.4 (5H, m), 1.7-1.85 (5H, m). 2.45 (1H, s),3.7 (2H, m), 4.30 (1H, m), 4.78 (2H, s), 6.23 (1H, s), 6.95-7.3 (8H, m),7.42 (1H, s), 7.60 (2H, d); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=595 (M+1);R_(t)=7.48 min.

Example 4 General Procedure (A)

[0519](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0520]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.2-1.4 (5H, m), 1.7-1.8 (5H, m), 3.40 (1H,m), 3.56 (1H, dt), 4.18 (1H, t), 4.97 (2H, s), 5.5 (1H, brd) 7.14-7.25,(6H, m), 7.34 (2H, d), 7.55 (2H, d), 7.79 (2H, d), 8.38 (1H, s), 8.44(1H, t); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=600 (M+1); R_(t)=7.38 min.

Example 5 General Procedure (A)

[0521](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0522]¹H-NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.15-1-45 (m, 5H), 1.60-1.90 (m, 5H),4.95 (s, 2H), 7.12 (d, 2H), 7.19 (d, 2H), 7.24 (d, 1H), 7.45 (t, 1H),7.72 (d, 2H), 7.75 (s br, 1H), 7.90 (s, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.58 (s br,1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=584 (M+1); R_(t)=4.99 min.

Example 6 General Procedure (A)

[0523](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-fluoro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0524]¹H-NMR (200 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.15-1-45 (m, 5H), 1.60-1.85 (m, 5H),3.25-3.65 (m, 3H), 4.13 (t, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 7.10-7.22 (m, 5H), 7.30(d, 2H), 7.75 (m, 3H), 8.45 (t, 1H), 8.78 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A):m/z=602 (M+1); R_(t)=7.83 min.

Example 7 General Procedure (A)

[0525](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Cyano-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0526]¹H-NMR (200 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.15-1.70 (m, 4H), 2.12 (s, 2H), 2.35(s, 2H), 5.00 (s, 2H), 6.15 (s, 1H), 7.10-7.40 (m, 6H), 7.78 (m, 3H),8.20 (d, 2H), 8.90 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=607 (M+1);R_(t)=7.42 min.

Example 8 General Procedure (A)

[0527](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Cyano-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0528]¹H-NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.15-1.45 (m, 5H), 1.60-1.85 (m, 5),3.45-3.60 (m, 3H), 4.15 (t, 1H) 4.95 (s, 2H), 7.20 (dd, 4H), 7.35 (d,2H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 7.88 (s, 1H), 8.18 (s, 1H), 8.21 (s, 1H), 8.45 (t,1H), 8.95 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=609 (M+1); R_(t)=7.58 min.

Example 9 General Procedure (A)

[0529](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromo-5-trifluoromethlphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0530]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.50-1.76 (m, 4H), 2.15 (m, 2H), 2.33 (m, 2H),3.37 (m, 2H), 3.54 (m, 1H), 4.14 (dd, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.17 (t, 1H),7.17 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.46 (s, 1H), 7.75 (d, 2H),7.91 (s, 1H), 8.07 (s, 1H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 8.66 (s, 1H).

Example 10 General Procedure (A)

[0531](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3-methoxy-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0532]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.51-1.76 (m, 4H), 2.15 (m, 2H), 2.34 (m, 2H),3.37 (m, 2H), 3.54 (m, 1H), 3.75 (s, 3H), 4.14 (dd, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H),6.16 (t, 3H), 6.78 (s, 1H), 7.16 (d, 2H), 7.32 (d, 2H), 7.38 (d, 2H),7.43 (s, 1H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 8.51 (s, 1H).

Example 11 General Procedure (A)

[0533](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0534] The title compound was prepared according to general procedure(A) modifying step 2 as follows:

[0535] Step 2:4-[3-(3-Bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0536] To 3-bromobenzoic acid (1.2 g, 5.7 mmol) in toluene (20 mL) wasadded triethylamine (0.91 mL, 6.5 mmol) and diphenoxyphosphoryl azide(1.3 mL, 6.2 mmol) and the mixture was heated to 100° C. while stirring.After 1 hour 4-[(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenylamino)methyl]-benzoic acidmethyl ester (prepared similarly as described in example 1, step 1) (1.6g, 5 mmol) was added and heating was continued for additional 1.5 hour.After cooling to room temperature the mixture was transferred with ethylacetate (50 mL) to a separatory funnel. The organic mixture was washedwith saturated aqueous sodium hydrogen carbonate (2×50 mL), backwashwith ethyl acetate (50 mL). The organic phases were collected, dried(sodium sulphate) and the solvent removed in vacuo to yield a brown oilthat was purified on silica column eluted with DCM to afford 700 mg of4-[3-(3-bromophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester.

[0537] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=521 (M+1); R_(t)=6.1 min.

[0538] Data for the title compound:

[0539]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.54 (s, 2H), 1.65 (s, 2H), 2.15 (s, 2H), 2.36(s, 2H), 3.56 (br s, 2H), 4.19 (br s, 1H), 4.71 (s, 2H), 6.09 (s, 1H),6.42 (s, 1H), 6.90-7.18 (m, 6H), 7.30.7.70 (m, 6H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=592.5 (M+1); R_(t)=4.73 min.

Example 12 General Procedure (A)

[0540](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Bromo-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid

[0541]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.14-1.43 (m, 5H), 1.64-1.83 (m, 5H),3.40-3.45 (m,1H), 3.45-3.53 (m, 1H), 4.00 (t, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H),7.13-7.27 (m, 4H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.48 (s, 1H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 7.92 (s,1H), 8.07 (s, 1H), 8.43 (t, 1H), 8.71 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A):m/z=662 (M+1); R_(t)=8.17 min.

Example 13 General Procedure (A)

[0542](S)-Trans-3-{4-[3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0543] Step 1: trans-4-[(4-tert-butylcyclohexylamino)methyl]benzoic AcidMethyl Ester

[0544] 4-Formylbenzoic acid methyl ester (10.6 g, 64.4 mmol) wasdissolved in methanol (200 mL). A 17:83 cis/trans mixture of4-tert/butylcyclohexylamine (10.0 g, 64.4 mmol, Aldrich) was added,leading to immediate precipitation of white crystals. The mixture washeated to reflux for 30 min to complete imine formation, then cooled to0° C. on an ice bath. The crystalline puretrans-4-[(4-tert-butylcyclohexylimino)methyl]benzoic acid methyl esterwas then collected by filtration, and dried overnight in vacuo. Yield:15.3 g (78%).

[0545]¹H NMR (CDCl₃), 300 MHz: δ 8.37 (s, 1H); 8.06 (d, 2H); 7.77 (d,2H); 3.92 (s, 3H); 3.17 (m, 1H); 1.83 (m, 4H); 1.60 (m, 2H), 1.09 (m,3H); 0.87 (s, 9H).

[0546] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₁₉H₂₇NO₂ C, 75.71%; H, 9.03%; N,4.65%. Found: C, 75.60%; H, 9.37%; N, 4.68%.

[0547] The mother liquid was taken to dryness to leave 4.2 g (22%) whitesolid, which according to NMR consisted mainly of the imino cis isomer.

[0548]¹H NMR (CDCl₃), 300 MHz: δ 8.36 (s, 1H); 8.07 (d, 2H); 7.81 (d,2H); 3.92 (s, 3H); 3.54 (m, 1H); 1.55-1.92 (m, 8H); 1.14 (m, 1H); 0.90(s, 9H).

[0549] trans-4-[(4-tert-Butylcyclohexylimino)methyl]benzoic acid methylester (21.0 g, 69.2 mmol) was suspended in methanol (300 mL), and aceticacid (50 mL) was added. To the resulting clear solution was added sodiumcyanoborohydride (3.5 g, 55.5 mmol), and the mixture was stirred atambient temperature for 30 min. The reaction volume was then reduced toone third by rotary evaporation, and ethyl acetate (500 mL) was added.The organic phase was washed with sodium carbonate solution (5%, 500mL), and dried with sodium sulphate. The solvent was removed by rotaryevaporation to leave the title material as a white crystalline solidsufficiently pure for further reactions. Yield: 21.1 g (100%).

[0550]¹H NMR (CDCl₃), 300 MHz: δ 7.98 (d, 2H); 7.38 (d, 2H); 3.90 (s,3H); 3.86 (s, 2H); 2.39 (m, 1H); 2.01 (m, 2H); 1.77 (m, 2H);1.51 (bs,1H); 0.93-1.18 (m, 5H); 0.82 (s, 9H); HPLC-MS (Method B: R_(t)=4.87m/z=304 (M+1).

[0551] Step 2:Trans-4-[1-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0552] Trans-4-[(4-tert-butylcyclohexylamino)methyl]benzoic acid methylester (1.0 g, 3.3 mmol) was dissolved in acetonitrile (40 mL),3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenylisocyanate (0.9 g, 3.6 mmol) was added andthe reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight. Thesolvent was concentrated in vacuo to 5-10 mL and the crystals wereisolated by filtration to afford 1.45 g (81%) oftrans-4-[1-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester:

[0553]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 9.08 (s, 1H); 8.25 (s, 2H); 7.91 (d, 2H); 7.60(s, 1H); 7.40 (d, 2H); 4.65 (s, 2H); 4.07 (broad, 1H); 3.83 (s, 3H);1.71 (broad, 4H); 1.42 (broad, 2H); 1.11 (broad, 2H); 0.93 (broad, 1H);HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=559 (M+1); R_(t)=9.40 min; M.p. 188-190° C.(CH₃CN).

[0554] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₈H₃₂N₂F₆O₃: C, 60.21%; H, 5.77%;N, 5.02%. Found: C, 60.46%; H, 5.94%; N, 5.00%.

[0555] Step 2a:Trans-4-[1-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-tert-butycyiclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoicAcid

[0556]Trans-4-[1-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethy]benzoicacid methyl ester (1.4 g) was suspended in absolute ethanol (20 mL),sodium hydroxide (2N, 11 mL) was added and the reaction mixture wasgently refluxed for 2 hours. The ethanol was removed in vacuo,additional water (40 mL) was added, pH was adjusted with hydrochloride(4 N) to acidic reaction and then ethyl acetate (200 mL) was added. Theorganic phase was isolated, washed with water (4×50 mL), dried withmagnesium sulphate, filtered and evaporated in vacuo, affording 1.1 g(85%)trans-4-[1-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-3-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid as a solid.

[0557]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.85 (s, 1H); 9.08 (s, 1H); 8.25 (s, 2H);7.89 (d, 2H); 7.61 (s, 1H); 7.38 (d, 2H); 4.65 (s, 2H); 4.07 (m, 1H);1.73 (m, 4H); 1.43 (m, 2H); 1.11 (m, 2H); 0.93 (m, 1H); 0.82 (s, 9H);M.p. 239-241° C. (MeCN).

[0558] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₇H₃₀N₂F₆O₃: C, 59.55%; H, 5.55%;N, 5.14%. Found: C, 59.58%; H, 5.65%; N, 5.11%.

[0559] Following steps 3 and 4 afforded the title compound.

[0560]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.83 (s, 9H), 0.90-0.99 (m, 1H), 1.06-1.15 (m,2H), 1.37-1.50 (m, 2H), 1.64-1.80 (m, 4H), 3.35-3.43 (m, 1H), 3.52-3.61(m, 1H), 4.01-4.11 (m, 1H), 4.18 (t, 1H), 4.63 (s, 2H), 7.35 (d, 2H),7.61 (s, 1H), 7.81 (d, 2H), 8.27 (s, 2H), 8.43 (t, 1H), 9.07 (s, 1H),12.46 (broad, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=632 (M+1); R_(t)=8.00 min;M.p. 185-187° C.

[0561] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₀H₃₅F₆N₃O₅: C, 57.05%; H, 5.59%;N, 6.65%. Found: C, 57.32%; H, 5.70%; N, 6.27%.

Example 14 General Procedure (A)

[0562](R)-Trans-3-{4-[3-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0563]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.43(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.56 (m, 1H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 4.16(t, 1H), 4.63 (s, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.61 (s, 1H), 7.80 (d, 2H), 8.26(s, 2H), 8.43 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=632 (M+1); R_(t)=8.17min; M.p. 184-187° C.

[0564] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₀H₃₅N₃F₆O₅ (+0.5 ethyl acetate):C, 56.88%; H, 5.82%; N, 6.22%. Found: C, 56.63%; H, 5.66%; N, 6.47%.

Example 15 General Procedure (A)

[0565]Trans-(R)-3-{4-[3-(3-methyl-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0566]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.43(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 2.33 (s, 3H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.56 (m, 1H), 4.05(m, 1H), 4.16 (t, 1H), 4.63 (s, 2H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.73(s, 1H), 7.80 (d, 2H), 8.43 (t, 1H), 8.62 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method A):m/z=578 (M+1); R_(t)=7.45 min.

Example 16 General Procedure (A)

[0567](RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0568] Step 1:4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0569] 4-Formylbenzoic acid methyl ester (10.6 g, 64 mmol) was dissolvedin methanol (200 mL). 4-tert-Butylaniline (9.61 g, 64 mmol) was addedand the resulting suspension was refluxed for 15 min. After cooling toroom temperature, TFA (5.18 mL, 68 mmol) was added followed by portionwise addition of sodium cyanoborohydride (3.26 g, 52 mmol). Theresulting mixture was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours andconcentrated in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between ethyl acetate(200 mL) and 1 N aqueous sodium hydroxide (150 and 100 mL). The organicphase was dried (magnesium sulphate) and evaporated in vacuo to afford19.0 g (99%) of 4-[(4-tert-butylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acid methylester as a solid.

[0570]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): a1.28 (9H, s), 3.92 (3H, s), 4.39 (2H, s), 6.57(2H, d), 7.20 (2H, d), 7.44 (2H, d), 8.00 (2H, d).

[0571] Step 2:

[0572] The above benzoic acid methyl ester (0.73 g, 2.44 mmol) wasdissolved in acetonitrile (7 mL) and 4-trifluoromethoxyphenylisocyanate(405 μL, 2.68 mmol) was added. The resulting mixture was stirred at roomtemperature for 3 hours and then refluxed for 1.5 hour. After coolingand concentration in vacuo, the residue was purified by columnchromatography on silica gel, eluting first with a mixture of ethylacetate and heptane (1:6), then with a mixture of ethyl acetate andheptane (1:3) to afford 1.14 g (94%) of4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester as an oil.

[0573]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.35 (9H, s), 3.91 (3H, s), 4.97 (2H, s), 6.30(1H, s), 7.1 (4H, m), 7.32-7.43 (6H, m), 7.96 (2H, d). TLC: Rf=0.11(SiO₂; ethyl acetate/heptane (1:6)); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=501 (M+1);R_(t)=9.05 min.

[0574] Step 2a:

[0575] The above ureidomethylbenzoic acid methyl ester (1.14 g, 2.28mmol) was dissolved in 1,4-dioxane (25 mL) and added 1 N aqueous sodiumhydroxide (5 mL). The resulting mixture was stirred at room temperaturefor 1 hour. Ethanol (15 mL) and 1 N aqueous sodium hydroxide (5 mL) wereadded and the resulting mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16hours. The mixture was concentrated in vacuo and partitioned between 1 Nhydrochloric acid (100 mL) and ethyl acetate (2×50 mL). The combinedorganic phases were dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated in vacuoto afford 847 mg (76%) of4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid as a solid.

[0576]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.33 (9H, s), 3.91 (3H, s), 4.97 (2H, s), 6.30(1H, s), 7.1 (4H, m), 7.33 (2H, d), 7.43 (4H, m), 8.03 (2H, d).

[0577] Step 3:(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0578] To a solution of[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (1.0 g, 2.06 mmol) in DMF (1 mL) and DCM (10 mL) was added1-hydroxy-7-azabenzotriazole (0.33 g, 2.47 mmol). After stirring for 1hour at room temperature, EDAC (0.47 g, 2.47 mmol), (RS)-isoserine ethylester hydrochloride (0.52 g, 3.09 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (1.1mL, 6.18 mmol) were added, successively. After stirring for 17 hours atambient temperature the reaction mixture was partitioned between water,brine and ethyl acetate. The aqueous phase was further extracted withethyl acetate. The combined organic phases were washed with water andbrine. After drying (magnesium sulphate) and filtration, the organicphase was evaporated in vacuo. The residue was purified by columnchromatography on silica gel eluting with a mixture of toluene and ethylacetate (6:4). This afforded 1.2 g (97%) of(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester as an oil.

[0579]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.12 (t, 3H), 1.27 (s, 9H), 3.45 (m, 2H), 4.05(q, 2H), 4.21 (dd, 1H), 4.98 (s, 2H), 5.67 (d, 1H), 7.20 (dd, 4H), 7.35(dd, 4H), 7.55 (d, 2H), 5.77 (d, 2H), 8.42 (s, 1H), 8.48 (t, 1H);HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=602 (M+1); R_(t)=3.38 min.

[0580] Step 4:

[0581] A solution of3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester was stirred in absolute ethanol (20 mL) and 1 M sodiumhydroxide (6 mL) was added. Stirring was continued for 17 hours and thesolution was acidified with aqueous hydrochloric acid. The solvent wasdecanted and the remaining oil was dissolved in acetonitrile (20 mL) byheating. Water (20 mL) was added dropwise under vigorous stirring andthe mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature. The precipitate wasfiltered off, washed with water and dried to afford 0.51 g (43%) of thetitle compound as a solid.

[0582]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.25 (s, 9H), 3.50 (ddd, 2H), 4.18 (dd,1H),4.95 (s, 2H), 7.20 (dd, 4H), 7.39 (dd, 4H), 7.52 (d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H),8.32 (s, 1H), 8.46 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=574 (M+1);R_(t)=3.07 min.

[0583] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₉H₃₀F₃N₃O₆: C, 60.73%; H, 5.27%;N, 7.33%. Found: C, 60.77%; H, 5.37; N %, 7.26%.

Example 17 General Procedure (A)

[0584](RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0585] Step 3:(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0586] Yield: 0.33 g (89%).

[0587]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.30 (t, 3H), 1.68 (m, 2H), 1.79 (m, 2H), 2.23(m, 2H), 2.38 (m, 2H), 3.41 (d, 1H), 3.83 (m, 2H), 4.27 (q, 2H), 4.37(dd, 1H), 4.92 (s, 2H), 6.20 (m, 1H), 6.27 (s, 1H), 6.51 (t, 1H), 6.98(s, 1H), 7.04 (d, 2H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 2H), 7.68(d, 2H).

[0588] Step 4:(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0589] A solution of(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester (0.99 g, 1.61 mmol) in ethanol (15 mL) and THF (15 mL)was stirred and 1 M sodium hydroxide (6 mL) was added. The mixture wasstirred at 40° C. for 4 hours and acidified with 1 N hydrochloric acid.After evaporation in vacuo the residue was purified on semipreperativeHPLC (Gilson system). The pure fractions were combined and evaporated invacuo to afford 0.74 g (79%) of the title compound as a solid.

[0590]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.56 (m, 2H), 1.70 (m, 2H), 2.17 (s, 2H), 2.33(s, 2H), 3.35 (m, 2H), 3.55 (m, 2H), 4.15 (dd, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.20(s. 1H), 7.12 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.62(s, 2H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 8.43 (t, 1H), 8.55 (s,1H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=582 (M+1); R_(f)=5.13 min.

[0591] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₉H₃₀Cl₂N₃O₅: C, 61.86%; H, 5.02%;N, 7.21%. Found: C, 61.10%; H, 5.05%; N, 7.03%.

Example 18

[0592](S)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0593]4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (130 mg, 0.26 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL), then EDAC (50 mg,0.26 mmol) and HOBt (43 mg, 0.32 mmol) were added and the reactionmixture was stirred at room temperature for 1 hour. The above crude(S)-2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethylammonium trifluoroacetatewas dissolved in DMF (1 mL) and added to the reaction mixture togetherwith diisopropylethylamine (450 mg, 3.5 mmol). The mixture was stirredat room temperature for 16 hours.

[0594] The reaction mixture was transferred to a silica gel column andeluted with DCM to afford crude(S)-4-[1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-N-(2,2-dimethyl-5-oxo-[1,3]dioxolan-4-ylmethyl)benzamideas an oil after evaporation. The oil was redissolved in acetonitrile (5mL), hydrochloric acid (1 N, 5 mL) was added and the mixture was stirredat room temperature for 1.5 hour. The solvent was removed by evaporationand the crude product was purified on semipreperative HPLC(acetonitrile/water gradient) to afford the title compound.

[0595] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=582 (M+1); R_(t)=5.10 min.

Example 19 General Procedure (A)

[0596](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0597] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Ethyl Ester

[0598]¹H-NMR (Acetone-d₆): δ 1.20 (t, 3H), 1.70 (dm, 4H), 2.31 (dm, 4H),3.70 (m, 2H), 4.15 (q, 2H), 4.35 (dd, 1H), 5.02 (s, 2H), 6.22 (m, 1H),7.00 (s, 1H), 7.20 (d, 2H), 7.40 (dd, 4H), 7.61 (ds, 2H), 7.80 (d, 3H),7.89 (s, 1H).

[0599] Step 4:

[0600] A solution of(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid ethyl ester (0.60 g, 0.98 mmol) in ethanol (5 mL) and THF (5 mL)was stirred and 4 N sodium hydroxide (0.76 mL, 2.94 mmol) was added. Thesolution was stirred for 3 hours at room temperature and then acidifiedwith 1 N hydrochloric acid. Evaporation in vacuo afforded an oil, whichwas partitioned between ethyl acetate, water and brine. The aqueousphase was extracted twice with ethyl acetate and the combined organicphases were washed with water and brine. Drying (magnesium sulphate),filtration, and evaporation in vacuo afforded 0.43 g (73%) of the titlecompound as a solid.

[0601]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.50-1.80 (4H, m), 2.08-2.38 (4H, m),3.36-3.65 (2H, m), 4.14-4.24 (1H, m), 4.96 (2H, m), 6.17 (1H, t), 7.14(1H, t), 7.18 (2H, d), 7.35 (2H, d), 7.42 (2H, d), 7.63 (2H, d), 7.78(2H, d), 8.48 (1H, t), 8.55 (1H, s); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=582 (M+1);R_(t)=5.11 min.

Example 20 General Procedure (A)

[0602](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-Chlorophenyl)-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0603]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.56-1.71 (m, 4H), 2.15-2.33 (m, 4H),3.37-3.51 (m, 2H), 4.14-4.17 (m, 1H), 4.96 (s, 1H), 6.17 (t, 1H), 7.12(dd, 1H), 7.27-7.41 (m, 8H), 7.62 (t, 1H), 7.87 (d, 2H), 8.38-8.43 (m,3H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=548 (M+1); R_(t)=4.69 min.

Example 21 General Procedure (A)

[0604](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-phenylureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0605]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.56-1.71 (m, 4H), 2.15-2.40 (m, 4H),3.30-3.51 (m, 2H), 4.14-4.19 (m, 1H), 4.97 (s, 1H), 6.16 (t, 1H), 6.98(t, 1H), 7.12-7.48 (m, 10H), 7.79 (d, 2H), 8.15 (s, 1H), 8.43 (t, 1H).

Example 22 General Procedure (A)

[0606](R)-3-{4-[3-Benzyl-1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxy-propionicAcid

[0607]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.50-1.75 (m, 4H), 1.86 (s, 2H), 2.08 (s, 2H),3.30-3.60 (m, 2H), 4.13-4.20 (m, 1H), 4.25 (d, 2H), 4.87 (s, 2H), 6.18(t, 1H), 6.55 (t, 1H), 7.08-7.42 (m, 11H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 8.48 (t, 1H).

Example 23 General Procedure (A)

[0608](RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)₃-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-fluoropropionicAcid

[0609] Steps 1 and 2:4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0610]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.52-1.77 (m, 4H), 2.10-2.23 (m, 2H),2.26-2.38 (m, 2H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.18 (t, 1H), 7.14 (t, 1H), 7.17 (d,2H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.64 (dd, 2H), 7.85 (d, 2H), 8.55 (s,1H).

[0611] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₇H₂₄N₂O₃Cl₂: C, 65.46%; H, 4.88%;N, 5.65%. Found: C, 65.43%; H, 5.10%; N, 5.66%.

[0612] Step 3:(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-fluoropropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0613]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.52-1.75 (m, 4H), 2.10-2.40 (m, 4H),3.60-3.81 (m, 5H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 5.04-5.35 (m, 1H), 6.18 (m, 1H),7.10-7.80 (m, 11H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.75 (t, 1H), 13.45 (brs, 1H).

[0614] Step 4:

[0615] Hydrolysis of(RS)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-fluoropropionicacid methyl ester in a mixture of THF and methanol afforded the titlecompound.

[0616]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.59-1.72 (m, 4H), 2.15-2.33 (m, 4H),3.58-3.81 (m, 2H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 5.17-5.23 (m, 1H), 6.18 (m, 1H),7.13-7.80 (m, 11H), 8.54 (s, 1H), 8.73 (t, 1H), 13.45 (br s, 1H).

Example 24 General Procedure (A)

[0617](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0618] Step 2:4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0619] 4-((4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic acid methyl ester(0.32 g, 1 mmol) was suspended in acetonitrile (5 mL) and4-(trifluoromethylthio)phenyl isocyanate (0.24 g, 1.1 mmol) was added.Additional amounts (0.05 g) of the isocyanate was added after the firstday and again after the second day (0.05 g). The reaction was stopped onthe third day and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified bycolumn chromatography on silica gel (30 g) using ethyl acetate:n-heptane (400 mL 1:4 and 100 mL 1:1) as eluent to afford 0.53 g of4-[1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester.

[0620]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.16-1.43 (m, 5H), 1.65-1.82 (m, 5H), 3.84 (s,3H), 4.99 (s, 2H), 8.62 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=543 (M+1);R_(t)=9.35 min.

[0621] Step 2a:4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0622]4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester (0.53 g, 0.98 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (96%, 11mL) and sodium hydroxide (4 N, 1.47 mL) was added. The mixture wasstirred overnight. The reaction was concentrated to dryness and addedwater (15 mL) and acidified with hydrochloric acid (4 N, 1.6 mL) to pH2-3 and extracted with ethyl acetate (25 mL). The aqueous phase wasextracted once more with ethyl acetate (15 mL) and the combined organicphases were washed 3 times with water (10 mL), dried over magnesiumsulphate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. Crystallisation from ethylacetate:n-heptane gave 0.34 g of4-[1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid.

[0623]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.5-1.42 (m, 5H), 1.67-1.83 (m, 5H), 2.45 (m,1H), 5.00 (s, 2H), 7.15-7.25 (dd, 4H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.54-7.63 (dd, 4H),7.88 (d, 2H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 12.90 (broad, 1H), HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=529 (M+1); R_(t)=8.55 min; M.p. 162.0-164.0° C.

[0624] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₈H₂₇F₃N₂O₃S: C, 63.62%; H, 5.15%;N, 5.30%. Found: C, 63.97%; H, 5.28%; N, 5.26%.

[0625] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0626]4-[1-{1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (0.32 g, 0.606 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (7 mL) and HOAt (0.10 g,0.727 mmol) and EDAC (0.14 g, 0.727 mmol) were added. The mixture wasstirred for 30 min. Then (R)-3-amino-2-hydroxypropionic acid methylester hydrochloride (0.14 g) and diisopropylethylamine (0.16 mL, 0.909mmol) were added. The reaction was stirred overnight. The reactionmixture was transferred to a separatory funnel with ethyl acetate (30mL) and water (15 mL) and extracted. The aqueous phase was extractedonce more with ethyl acetate (15 mL) and the combined organic phaseswere washed with hydrochloric acid (0.2 N, 3×10 mL) and an aqueoussolution of saturated sodium chloride (3×10 mL), dried over magnesiumsulphate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purifiedon a column (silica gel, 30 g) using a mixture of ethyl acetate andn-heptane (200 mL, 40:60 and 450 mL 1:1) as eluent to afford 0.33 g of(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0627]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆) δ 1.16-1.43 (m, 5H), 1.66-1.81 (m, 5H), 2.47 (m,1H), 3.4 (m, 1H), 3.51 (m, 1H), 3.63 (s, 3H), 4.22 (q, 1H), 4.97 (s,2H), 5.73 (d,1H), 7.2 (dd, (4H), 7.35 (d, 2H), 7.60 (dd, 4H), 7.76 (d,2H), 8.50 (t, 1H), 8.60 (s,1H), HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=630 (M+1);R_(t)=8.07 min.

[0628] Step 4:

[0629](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester (0.32 g, 0.508 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (15 mL)and sodium hydroxide (4 N, 0.76 mL, 3.05 mmol) was added. The reactionmixture was stirred for 1.5 hour. The reaction was evaporated and addedwater (15 mL) and acidified with hydrochloric acid (4 N, 0.8 mL). Themixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (20 mL). The aqueous phase wasextracted once more with ethyl acetate (15 mL) and the combined organicphases were washed with water (3×10 mL), dried over magnesium sulphate,filtered and concentrated to give the title compound (0.3 g).

[0630]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.12-1.42 (m, 5H), 1.66-1.82 (m, 5H), 2.45 (m,1H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.54 (m, 1H), 4.17 (q, 1H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 5.45(broad, 1H), 7.20 (dd, 4H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.60 (dd, 4H), 7.78 (d, 2H),8.45 (t, 1H), 8.60 (s, 1H), 12.53 (broad, 1H), HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=616 (M+1); R_(t)=7.68 min.

[0631] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₁H₃₂F₃N₃O₅S: C, 60.48%; H, 5.24%;N, 6.83%. Found: C, 60.25%; H, 5.52%; N, 6.53%.

Example 25 General Procedure (A)

[0632](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexen-1-ylphenyl)-3-(3-methanesulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0633] Preparation of 3-methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylisocyanate, intermediate D-N═C═O used in step 2:

[0634] To a solution of methyl iodide (59.0 g, 0.41 mol) in DMF (150 mL)was added potassium carbonate (23.0 g, 0.16 mol).2-(Trifluoromethoxy)thiophenol (16.0 g, 0.08 mol) was added in portionsduring 30 min. The reaction mixture was then stirred vigorouslyovernight. Water (250 mL) was added. The reaction mixture was extractedwith ethyl acetate (2×150 mL). The combined organic phases were washedwith a 50% saturated aqueous solution of sodium chloride (4×100 mL),dried (magnesium sulphate), and concentrated in vacuo to give 15.0 g of1-methylsulfanyl-2-trifluoromethoxybenzene.

[0635] 1-Methylsulfanyl-2-trifluoromethoxybenzene (15.0 g, 72 mmol) wasdissolved in DCM (200 mL) and m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (39.0 g, 216mmol) was added in small portions during 30 min. The reaction mixturewas then allowed to stand overnight. DCM (200 mL) was added followed byslow addition of sodium hydroxide (2 N, 200 mL). The organic phase wasseparated and washed with sodium hydroxide (2 N, 3×150 mL), dried(magnesium sulphate) and concentrated in vacuo to give 15.8 g of1-methylsulfonyl-2-trifluoromethoxybenzene

[0636]¹H-NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 8.11 (d, 1H), 7.71 (t, 1H), 7.48 (m,2H) 3.23(s 1H); M.p. 44-46 C.

[0637] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₈H₇F₃O₃S: C, 40.00%; H, 2.94%.Found: C, 40.22%; H, 2.92%.

[0638] 1-Methylsulfonyl-2-trifluoromethoxybenzene (15.7 g, 65 mmol) wasdissolved in concentrated sulfuric acid (27 mL) and the solution washeated to 40° C. Nitric acid (100%, 27 mL) was added dropwise over 45min. The reaction mixture was allowed to stand overnight at 60° C.,cooled, and then poured on crushed ice (300 mL). The precipitatedproduct was isolated by filtration, washed with water (10×50 mL) anddried (magnesium sulphate), affording 17.5 g of3-methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxynitrobenzene.

[0639]¹H-NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 8.69 (d, 1H), 8.64 (d, 1H), 7.95 (d,1H) 3.45 (s 3H); M.p. 102-104° C.

[0640] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₈H₆F₃NO₅S: C, 33.69%; H, 2.12%; N,4.91%. Found: C, 33.91%; H, 2.08%; N, 4.92%.

[0641] 3-Methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxynitrobenzene (17.5 g) wasdissolved in methanol (400 mL) followed by addition of palladium oncarbon (10%, 50% water, 3.2 g). The reaction mixture was hydrogenatedfor 17 hours at 1 atm of hydrogen, filtered and concentrated in vacuo togive 14.3 g of 3-methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyaniline.

[0642]¹H-NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 7.26 (d, 1H), 7.14 (d, 1H), 6.85 (dd,1H) 5.89(s, 2H) 3.21 (s, 3H); M.p. 106-109° C.

[0643] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₈H₈F₃NO₃S: 37.65% C, 3.16% H,5.49% N. Found: 37.65% C, 3.14% H, 5.45% N.

[0644] To 3-methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyaniline (2.0 mmol, 500 mg)dissolved in ethyl acetate (6 mL) was added 3 N hydrochloric acid inethyl acetate (5 mL) followed by concentration in vacuo. The residue wastreated with toluene (3×5 mL) and each time concentrated in vacuo. Tothe residue was added toluene (10 mL) and diphosgene (6 mmol, 0.73 mL)under a nitrogen atmosphere and the suspension was gently refluxed for 2hours. Additional diphosgene (6 mmol, 0.73 mL) was added and refluxingwas continued overnight. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuoto afford 3-methylsulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl isocyanate.

[0645] Step 3:(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohexen-1-ylphenyl)-3-(3-methanesulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0646] This intermediate was prepared using general procedure (A) (steps1, 2, 2a, and 3).

[0647]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.60 (m, 2H), 1.72 (m, 2H), 2.18 (m, 2H), 2.36(m, 2H), 3.27 (s, 3H), 3.41 (m, 1H), 3.51 (m, 1H), 3.61 (s, 3H), 4.23(q, 1H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 5.70 (d, 1H), 6.18 (m, 1H), 7.19 (d, 2H), 7.33(d, 2H), 7.39 (d, 2H), 7.53 (d, 1H), 7.75 (d, 2H), 8.00 (d, 1H), 8.18(s, 1H), 8.50 (t, 1H), 8.85 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=690 (M+1);R_(t)=6.92 min.

[0648] Step 4:

[0649] Hydrolysis of(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-cyclohexen-1-ylphenyl)-3-(3-methanesulfonyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl afforded the title compound.

[0650]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.60 (m, 2H), 1.72 (m, 2H), 2.18 (m, 2H), 2.36(m, 2H), 3.27 (s, 3H), 3.41 (m, 1H), 3.51 (m, 1H), 4.17 (t, 1H), 4.96(s, 2H), 5.50 (broad, 1H), 6.18 (m, 1H), 7.19 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H),7.39 (d, 2H), 7.53 (d, 1H), 7.75 (d, 2H), 8.00 (d, 1H), 8.18 (s, 1H),8.50 (t, 1H), 8.85 (s,1H), 12.55 (broad, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=676 (M+1); R_(t)=6.50 min.

Example 26 General Procedure (A)Trans-(R)-3-{4-[-3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0651]

[0652] Steps 1 and 2:Trans-4-[3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0653]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.41(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 2.23 (s, 6H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 4.09 (m, 1H), 4.61(s, 2H), 6.60 (s, 1H), 7.08 (s, 2H), 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.90 (d, 2H), 8.20(s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=451 (M+1); R_(t)=8.93 min.

[0654] Step 2a:Trans-4-[3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0655] The compound was prepared by hydrolysis oftrans-4-[3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(tert-butyl-cyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester.

[0656]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.41(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 2.23 (s, 6H), 4.09 (m, 1H), 4.61 (s, 2H), 6.60(s, 1H), 7.08 (s, 2H), 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.90 (d, 2H), 8.20 (s, 1H), 12.82(s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=437 (M+1); R_(t)=8.00 min.

[0657] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₇H₃₆N₂O₃: C, 74.28%; H, 8.31%; N,6.42%. Found: C, 74.31%; H, 8.40%; N, 6.35%.

[0658] Step 3:Trans-(R)-3-{4-[-3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester:

[0659] This compound was prepared fromtrans-4-[3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid.

[0660]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.43(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 2.23 (s, 6H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.52 (m, 1H), 3.63(s, 3H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 4.23 (q, 1H), 4.59 (s, 2H), 5.70 (d, 1H), 6.58(s, 1H), 7.08 (s, 2H), 7.30 (d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 8.18 (s, 1H), 8.47(t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=538 (M+1); R_(t)=7.43 min; M.p.159-160° C.

[0661] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₁H₄₃N₃O₅: C, 69.25%; H, 8.06%; N,7.81%. Found: C, 69.03%; H, 8.15%; N, 7.79%.

[0662] Step 4:

[0663] Hydrolysis oftrans-(R)-3-{4-[-3-(3,5-bis(methyl)phenyl)-1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester afforded the title compound.

[0664]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (s, 9H), 0.93 (m, 1H), 1.11 (m, 2H), 1.43(m, 2H), 1.71 (m, 4H), 2.23 (s, 6H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 4.05(m, 1H), 4.18 (t, 1H), 4.59 (s, 2H), 6.58 (s, 1H), 7.08 (s, 2H), 7.30(d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 8.18 (s, 1H), 8.47 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=524 (M+1); R_(t)=7.08 min.

[0665] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₃₀H₄₁N₃O₅, 1½ H₂O: C, 65.43%; H,8.05%; N, 7.63%. Found: C, 65.54%; H, 7.93%; N, 7.44%.

Example 27 General Procedure (A)

[0666](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0667]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.64 (d, 2H), 7.49 (brs, 1H), 7.25-7.15 (m, 6H),7.03 (d, 2H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 6.40 (s,1H), 4.75 (s, 2H), 4.30 (br s,1H),3.80-3.60 (m, 2H), 2.49 (m,1H), 1.90-1.65 (m, 5H), 1.45-1.25 (m, 5H);HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=584 (M+1); R_(t)=5.28 min.

Example 28 General Procedure (A)

[0668](R)-(3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3-fluoro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0669]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 8.75 (s, 1H), 8.42 (t, 1H), 7.75 (d, 4H),7.45-7.30 (m, 4H), 7.20 (d, 3H), 6.20 (s, 1H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 4.15 (dd,1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 2.35 (br s, 2H), 2.15 (br s, 2H).1.75-1.55 (m, 4H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=600 (M+1); R_(t)=5.01 min.

Example 29 General Procedure (A)

[0670](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-methylsulfanylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0671]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.2 (br s, 1H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 8.20 (s, 1H),7.78 (m, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.33 (m, 2H), 7.25-7.10 (m, 6H), 6.84 (d,1H), 4.95 (s, 1H), 4.15 (dd, 1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 1H). 2.42 (s,3H) 1.85-1.65 (m, 5H), 1.40-1.15 (m, 5H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=562(M+1); R_(t)=4.77 min.

Example 30 General Procedure (A)

[0672](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-4H-benzo[1,3]dioxin-6-yl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0673]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.70-7.50 (m, 3H), 7.45-7.30 (m, 4H), 7.25-6.85(m, 6H), 6.12 (s, 1H), 4.80 (s, 2H), 4.28 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H),2.40-2.00 (m, 4H), 1.70-1.55 (m, 4H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=644 (M+1);R_(t)=5.13 min.

Example 31 General Procedure (A)

[0674]3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-methoxypropionicAcid:

[0675] Step 3:

[0676]4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,5-dichloro-phenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (500 mg, 1.0 mmol), HOBt (184 mg, 1.2 mmol) and EDAC (232 mg; 1.2mmol) was dissolved in a mixture of DCM (4.0 mL) and DMF (1.0 mL). Theclear solution was stirred at ambient temperature for 1 hour. A solutionof 3-amino-2(R)-methoxypropionic acid methyl ester hydrochloride (257mg, 1.5 mmol) in DCM (2.0 mL) and DMF (0.2 mL) was added followed bydiisopropylethylamine (515 mL). The mixture was stirred at roomtemperature overnight, then diluted with DCM (40 mL) and washed oncewith a mixture of saturated sodium chloride/water (1:2). The organicphase was dried with anhydrous sodium sulphate and taken to dryness invacuo.

[0677] Step 4:

[0678] The oil was dissolved in a mixture of THF (4.0 mL) and methanol(4.0 mL). 4 N Aqueous sodium hydroxide was added (625 μL, 2.5 mmol) andthe mixture was stirred at room temperature for 2 hours. The pH wasadjusted to 3.0 with 1 N hydrochloric acid, then solvent was removed.The product was re-dissolved in ethyl acetate (20 mL) and washed oncewith water (20 mL). The water phase was back-extracted once with ethylacetate (10 mL) and the combined organic extracts were washed withsodium chloride (2×20 mL) and dried over anhydrous sodium sulphate.After removal of solvent, 230 mg (67%) of pure title compound wasobtained.

[0679]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.90 (bs, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.54 (t, 1H),7.76 (d, 2H), 7.63 (s, 2H), 7.41 (d, 2H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.20 (d, 2H),7.15 (s, 1H), 6.18 (s, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 3.90 (dd, 1H), 3.57 (m, 1H),3.42 (m, 1H), 3.29 (s, 3H), 2.34 (m, 2H), 2.16 (m, 2H), 1.70 (m, 2H),1.59 (m, 2H); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z=596.2 (M+1); R_(t)=5.93 min.

Example 32 General Procedure (A)

[0680]3-(4-{3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-[4-(2-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl]ureidomethyl}benzoylamino)-2-(R)-hydroxypropionicacid and(R,S)-3-(4-{3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-1-[4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl]ureidomethyl}benzoylamino)-2-(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0681] Using the mixture of 4-(2-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline (building block 11) and(R)-3-amino-2-hydroxypropionic acid methyl ester (building block 5)according to the general procedure (A) the title compounds was obtained.

[0682](R,S)-3-(4-{3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-[4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl]ureidomethyl}-benzoylamino)-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid:

[0683]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.55 (s, 3H), 1.63 (bs, 4H), 2.03 (bs, 2H),2.19 (bs, 2H), 3.47 (dm, 2H), 4.16 (m, 1H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 5.49 (bs, 1H),7.15 (m, 5H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.61 (s, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 8.45 (t, 1H),8.65 (s, 1H), 12.53 (bs, 1H); M.p.: 105-107° C.; HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=596 (M⁺); R_(t)=5,34 min.

[0684]3-(4-{3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-[4-(6-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl]ureidomethyl}benzoylamino)-2(R)-hydroxypropionicacid:

[0685]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.90 (ds, 3H), 1.63 (bs, 4H), 2.03 (bs, 2H),2.19 (bs, 2H), 3.47 (dm, 2H), 4.16 (m, 1H), 4.96 (s, 2H), 5.49 (bs, 1H),5.93 (t, 1H), 7.15 (m, 5H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.61 (s, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H),8.45 (t, 1H), 8.62 (s, 1H), 12.53 (bs, 1H).

Example 33 General Procedure (A)

[0686]3-{4-[1-[4-(4-tert-Butylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl]-3-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-(R)-hydroxyproionicAcid

[0687] Using 4-(4-tert-butylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline (building block 12)and (R)-3-amino-2-hydroxy-propionic acid methyl ester (building block 5)according to the general procedure (A) the title compound was obtained.

[0688]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.88 (s, 9H), 1.23 (m, 2H), 1.93 (m, 2H), 2.27(m, 3H), 3.47 (dm, 2H), 4.16 (dd, 1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.19 (m, 1H), 7.13(m 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.39 (d, 2H), 7.62 (s, 2H), 7.77 (d,2H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 12.53 (bs, 1H); M.p.: 151-155° C.;HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=638 (M⁺); R_(t)=6.04 min.

Example 34 General Procedure (A)

[0689](R,S)-3-(4-(3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-(4-(5-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl)ureidomethyl)benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicacid and(R,S)-3-(4-(3-(3,5-dichloroihenyl)-1-(4-(3-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl)ureidomethyl)benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0690] Using the mixture of (R,S)-4-(5-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline and(R,S)-4-(3-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)aniline (building block 13) accordingto the general procedure (A) gave a mixture (6:4) of the titlecompounds.

[0691](R,S)-3-(4-(3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-(4-(5-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl)ureidomethyl)benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid:

[0692]¹H-NMR (200 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.02 (d, 3H), 1.15-1-24 (m, 1H),1.61-1.96 (m, 3H), 2.14-2.44 (m, 3H), 3.40 (t, 2H), 3.47-3.62 (m, 1H),4.10-4.19 (m,1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.16 (t, 1H), 7.14 (t, 1H), 7.17 (d,2H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.39 (d, 2H), 7.61 (d, 2H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 8.44 (t,1H), 8.56 (s, 1H), 12.08 (s br, 1H).

[0693](R,S)-3-(4-(3-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-1-(4-(3-methylcyclohex-1-enyl)phenyl)ureidomethyl)benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid:

[0694]¹H-NMR (200 MHz, DMSO-d₆): δ 1.02 (d, 3H), 1.15-1-24 (m, 1H),1.61-1.96 (m, 3H), 2.14-2.44 (m, 3H), 3.40 (t, 2H), 3.47-3.62 (m, 1H),4.10-4.19 (m,1H), 4.95 (s, 2H), 6.04 (d, 1H), 7.14 (t, 1H), 7.17 (d,2H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.39 (d, 2H), 7.61 (d, 2H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 8.44 (t,1H), 8.53 (s, 1H), 12.08 (s br, 1H).

Example 35

[0695] 3-{4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0696] 4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]Benzoic Acid Methyl Ester

[0697] Methyl 4-formylbenzoate (47 g, 285 mmol) was dissolved inmethanol (400 mL) and a solution of 4-cyclohexylaniline (50 g, 0.285mmol) in methanol (200 mL) is slowly added with mechanical stirring.More methanol (1 L) was added and the suspension was stirred at roomtemperature for 3 days. Filtration, washing and drying in vacuo afforded90.7 g (99%) of 4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylimino)methyl]benzoic acid methylester. This was dissolved in N-methylpyrrolidone (855 mL) and methanol(45 mL). With mechanical stirring sodium borohydride pellets (42.4 g,1.12 mol) was added in portions keeping the temperature below 40° C. Themixture was then stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and at 40° C.for 16 hours. The mixture was cooled to 5° C. and water (2 L) was slowlyadded. Then acetone (350 mL) was added and the mixture was stirred at 5°C. for 1 hour. Filtration, washing with water (2×500 mL) and drying invacuo afforded 78 g (86%) of 4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoicacid methyl ester as a solid.

[0698]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 1.2-1.4 (5H, m), 1.7-1.85 (5H, m), 2.39 (1H, m),3.97 (3H, s), 4.04 (1H, bs), 4.39 (2H, s), 6.55 (2H, d), 7.01 (2H, d),7.44 (2H, d), 8.00 (2H, d).

[0699] N-Chlorocarbamoyl-4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic AcidMethyl Ester

[0700] 4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acid methyl ester (75g, 0.23 mol) was dissolved in THF (750 mL). Diisopropylethylamine (56.0mL, 0.32 mmol) and 4-dimethylamino-pyridine (1.0 g; 8.1 mmol) wereadded. The solution was cooled to 5° C. Bis(trichloromethyl)carbonate(28.0 g, 0.093 mol) was added in small portions while maintaining theinternal reaction temperature below 10° C. The mixture was stirred for afurther 2 hours at 10° C., and then transferred to a separatory funnel.Ethyl acetate (800 mL) and water (1000 mL) were added. After mixing, theorganic layer was separated, dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate, andconcentrated to dryness by rotary evaporation in vacuo. The product wasobtained quantitatively as a stable hard crystalline material.

[0701]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.92 (d, 2H); 7.40 (d, 2H); 7.25 (d, 2H); 7.17(d, 2H); 4.98 (s, 2H); 3.83 (s, 3H); 2.5 (m, 1H); 1.65-1.80 (m, 5H);1.15-1.40 (m, 5H).

[0702] N-Chlorocarbamoyl-4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic AcidMethyl Ester

[0703] 4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acid methyl ester (75g, 0.23 mol) was dissolved in THF (750 mL). Diisopropylethylamine (56.0mL, 0.32 mmol) and 4-dimethylamino-pyridine (1.0 g, 8.1 mmol) wereadded. The solution was cooled to 5° C. Bis(trichloromethyl)carbonate(28.0 g, 0.093 mol) was added in small portions while maintaining theinternal reaction temperature below 10° C. The mixture was stirred for afurther 2 hours at 10° C., and then transferred to a separatory funnel.Ethyl acetate (800 mL) and water (1000 mL) were added. After mixing, theorganic layer was separated, dried with anhydrous sodium sulphate, andconcentrated to dryness by rotary evaporation in vacuo. The product wasobtained quantitatively as a stable hard crystalline material.

[0704]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.92 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.25 (d, 2H), 7.17(d, 2H), 4.98 (s, 2H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 2.5 (m, 1H), 1.65-1.80 (m, 5H),1.15-1.40 (m, 5H).

[0705] 4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid Methyl Ester

[0706] A 2 L reaction flask equipped with mechanical stirring wascharged withN-chlorocarbamoyl-4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acid methylester (94 g, 0.244 mol), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (1.0 L) andtriethylamine (68 mL, 0.487 mol). To the clear solution was added dropwise (S)-1-(4-chlorophenyl)ethylamine (38.0 g, 0.244 mol), keeping theinternal reaction temperature below 30° C. Stirring was continued for 2hours, then the reaction mixture was partitioned between water (1.0 L)and ethyl acetate (1.0 L). After extensive mixing, the organic layer wasseparated, and washed with a 5% aqueous solution of citric acid (500mL), and saturated ammonium chloride (500 mL), before drying withanhydrous sodium sulphate. Solvent was removed, and the residual oil wasevaporated once from acetonitrile. This product was sufficiently purefor further synthesis. Yield: 103 g (84%).

[0707]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 7.88 (d, 2H), 7.32 (d, 2H), 7.30 (d, 4H), 7.19(d, 2H), 7.08 (d, 2H), 6.28 (d, 1H), 4.88 (dd, 2H), 4.76 (m, 1H), 3.81(s, 3H), 2.44 (m, 1H), 1.65-1.80 (m, 5H), 1.15-1.40 (m, 5H); HPLC-MS(method B): m/z=505 (M+1); R_(t)=6.17 min.

[0708]4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicAcid

[0709]4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid methyl ester (35.0 g, 69.3 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (400 mL).4 N aqueous sodium hydroxide (100 mL) was added and the clear solutionwas stirred at room temperature for 3 hours. The solution wasneutralised with 4 N hydrochloric acid (100 mL), and placed upon an icebath to initiate crystallization. The crystals were collected, washedextensively with water, and dried in vacuo overnight. Yield: 34.25 g(100%).

[0710]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.85 (bs, 1H), 7.85 (d, 2H), 7.32 (d, 2H),7.30 (d, 4H), 7.19 (d, 2H), 7.08 (d, 2H), 6.27 (d, 1H), 4.85 (m, 3H),2.45 (m, 1H), 1.65-1.80 (m, 5H), 1.15-1.40 (m, 5H); HPLC-MS (method B):m/z=491 (M+1); R_(t)=5.50 min.

[0711]3-{4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzovlamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0712] 4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoicacid (200 mg, 0.4 mmol), HOBt (75 mg, 0.5 mmol), and EDAC (94 mg, 0.5mmol) were dissolved in a mixture of DMF (200 μL) and DCM (2 mL). Theclear solution was stirred at room temperature for 90 min. A solution ofR-isoserine methyl ester hydrochloride (95 mg, 0.6 mmol) in a mixture ofDCM (1.0 mL) and DMF (0.4 mL) was added, and the reaction mixture wasleft stirring at ambient temperature overnight. The reaction mixture waspartitioned between DCM (20 mL) and water (20 mL). The organic phase wasseparated and washed with a mixture of brine and water (1:2), dried withanhydrous sodium sulphate and evaporated to dryness. The residue wassubsequently evaporated from acetonitrile, to give a quantitative yieldof title material.

[0713]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 8.48 (t, 1H), 7.73 (d, 2H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.30(d, 2H), 7.24 (d, 2H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.08 (d, 2H), 6.27 (d, 1H), 5.70(d, 1H), 4.34 (m, 1H), 4.32 (d, 2H), 4.22 (q, 1H), 3.62 (s, 3H), 3.52(m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 1.65-1.80 (m, 5H), 1.10-1.40 (m, 9H).

[0714] 3-{4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0715]3-{4-[3-[1(S)-(4-Chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester (280 mg, 0.473 mmol) was dissolved in a mixture of THF(2.5 mL) and methanol (2.5 mL) and 4 N aqueous sodium hydroxide (0.355mL) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for2 hours. The pH was adjusted to 3.0 by addition of 1 N hydrochloricacid. Solvent was removed by rotary evaporation in vacuo and the residuere-dissolved in ethyl acetate (10 mL). The organic phase was washedtwice with water and once with brine, and then concentrated to drynessin vacuo leaving the title compound as a powder. Yield: 168 mg (89%).

[0716]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 8.46 (t, 1H), 7.75 (d, 2H), 7.35 (d, 2H), 7.31(d, 2H), 7.25 (d, 2H), 7.19 (d, 2H), 7.08 (d, 2H), 6.28 (d, 2H), 4.85(m, 1H), 4.80 (d, 2H), 4.15 (m, 1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H),1.65-1.80 (m, 5H), 1.10-1.40 (m, 9H); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z=579 (M+1);R_(t)=5.27 min.

Example 36

[0717]3-{4-[3-Biphenyl-2-ylmethyl-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0718] This compound was prepared similarly as described in example 35from N-chlorocarbamoyl-4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoic acidmethyl ester and biphenyl-2-ylmethylamine followed by hydrolysis of thebenzoic acid methyl ester, coupling with (R)-isoserine ethyl esterhydrochloride. Hydrolysis afforded the title compound.

[0719]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 12.6 (s, 1H), 8.45 (t, 1H), 7.78 (d, 2H),7.45-7.20 (m, 14H), 7.05 (d, 2H), 6.10 (t, 1H), 5.50 (bs, 1H), 4.85 (s,2H), 4.2 (m, 3H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 2.45 (m, 1H), 1.85-1.70 (m, 5H),1.40-1.20 (m, 6H); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z 606 (M+1); R_(t)=5.08 min.

[0720] General Procedure (B) for Solution Phase Synthesis of Compoundsof the General Formulae (Ia) and (Ib):

[0721] wherein R², R³, R⁷, R⁸, A, E and D are as defined for formula(I).

[0722] When A is —CHOH— step 6 is performed using 1) BSA and 2) D-N═C═O.Otherwise, step 6 is performed using only D-N═C═O.

[0723] The procedure is illustrated further in the following examples.

Example 37 General Procedure (B)

[0724](R)-3-{4-[3-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0725] Step 1 is performed using the same method as in general procedure(A).

[0726] Step 2:4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoic acidmethyl ester

[0727] 4-((4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl)benzoic acid methyl ester (2.0g, 6.18 mmol) was suspended in sodium hydroxide (1 N, 6.18 mL) and asolution of di-tert-butyldicarbonate (1.67 g, 7.42 mmol) in THF (10 mL)was added dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight and wasconcentrated in vacuo to a solid residue, which was redissolved indiethyl ether (50 mL) and washed with water (25 mL) added sodiumhydroxide (1.3 mL, 1 N). The aqueous phase was extracted again withdiethyl ether (25 mL) at pH 11-12. The combined organic phases werewashed with sodium hydrogen sulphate (30 mL, 10%) and water (3×20 mL),dried with magnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo. Crystallisationfrom ethyl acetate and n-heptane afforded 1.98 g of4-{[tert-butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}-benzoic acidmethyl ester.

[0728]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.13-1.44 (m, 14H), 1.63-1.81 (m, 5H), 2.46(m, 1H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 4.88 (s, 2H), 7.12 (m, 4H), 7.48 (d, 2H), 7.92(d, 2H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=424 (M+1); R_(t)=9.10 min; M.p.99.5-101.0° C.

[0729] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₆H₃₃NO₄: C, 73.73%; H, 7.85%; N,3.31%. Found: C, 73.30%; H, 8.07%; N, 3.26%.

[0730] Step 3:4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoic Acid

[0731] 4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoicacid methyl ester was suspended in ethanol (30 mL) and sodium hydroxide(4 N, 8.1 mL) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight. Themixture was concentrated to dryness, suspended in water (100 mL),acidified with hydrochloric acid (8.5 mL, 4 N) and extracted with ethylacetate (100 mL). The aqueous phase was extracted once more with ethylacetate (30 mL) and the combined organic phases were washed with water(3×50 mL), dried with magnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo. Theresidue was crystallised from a mixture of ethyl acetate and n-heptaneto afford 1.75 g of4-{[tert-butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}-benzoic acid.

[0732]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃-d₆): δ 1.18-1.42 (m, 14H), 1.68-1.87 (m, 5H), 2.46(m, 1H), 4.88 (s, 2H), 7.10 (m, 4H), 7.47 (d, 2H), 8.07 (d, 2H); HPLC-MS(Method B): m/z=410 (M+1); R_(t)=8.15 min; M.p. 192.5-194.5° C.

[0733] Microanalysis: Calculated for C₂₅H₃₁NO₄: C, 73.32%; H, 7.63%; N,3.42%. Found: C, 73.03%; H, 7.86%; N, 3.36%.

[0734] Step 4:(R)-3-(4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0735] 4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoicacid was dissolved in DMF (10 mL) and HOBt (0.40 g, 2.93 mmol) and EDAC(0.52 g, 2.73 mmol) were added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 45min. Then a solution of (R)-3-amino-2-hydroxy-propionic acid methylester in DMF (8 mL) and diisopropylethylamine (0.46 mL) were added. Themixture was stirred overnight. The reaction mixture was diluted withwater (40 mL) and extracted with ethyl acetate (75 mL). The aqueousphase was extracted with ethyl acetate (30 mL). The combined organicphases were washed with hydrochloric acid (0.2 N, 3×30 mL), water:saturated sodium chloride (3×30 mL), dried with magnesium sulphate andconcentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatographyon silica gel (100 g) using mixtures of ethyl acetate and n-heptane (1 L(1:1) and 0.5 L (7:3)) as eluents to afford 0.77 g(R)-3-(4-{[tert-butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)am)inomethyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0736]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.16-1.41 (m, 14H), 1.63-1.81 (m, 5H), 2.46(m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.54 (m, 1H), 3.62 (s, 3H), 4.24 (m, 1H), 4.84(s, 2H), 5.70 (d, 1H), 7.12 (m, 4H), 7.28 (d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 8.51(t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=511 (M+1); R_(t)=7.63 min.

[0737] Step 5:(R)-3-[4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0738](R)-3-(4-{[tert-Butoxycarbonyl-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester was dissolved in ethyl acetate (10 mL) and dryhydrogen chloride in ethyl acetate (3 M, 10 mL) was added. The mixturewas stirred at room temperature for 2 hours and concentrated in vacuo.The residue was suspended in ethyl acetate (15 mL) and concentrated.This was repeated twice. The residue was then suspended in ethyl acetate(10 mL) and placed at 5° C. overnight. The precipitate was filtered andwashed with ice-cooled ethyl acetate and dried in vacuo to afford 0.62 gof(R)-3-{4-[(4-cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0739]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.12-1.43 (m, 5H), 1.63-1.82 (m, 5H), 2.45 (m,1H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.53 (m, 1H), 3.60 (s, 3H), 4.25 (t, 1H), 4.48 (s,2H), 7.18 (m, 4H), 7.57 (d, 2H), 7.82 (d, 2H), 8.58 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS(Method B): m/z=411 (M+1); R_(t)=4.93 min.

[0740] Step 6:(R)-3-{4-[3-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0741] 5-Amino-2-cyanobenzotrifluoride (0.07 g, 0.36 mmol) was dissolvedin ethyl acetate (2 mL) and dry hydrogen chloride in ethyl acetate (3.5M, 5.5 mL) was added. After 15 min the solution was concentrated todryness and co-evaporated three times from toluene (3×5 mL). The residuewas added toluene (2.5 mL) and flushed with nitrogen for about 10 min,before diphosgene (0.43 mL) was added. Then the mixture was gentlyrefluxed for 1 hour under a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture was cooledand concentrated to dryness in vacuo and then co-evaporated twice fromtoluene to remove excessive diphosgene to afford4-cyano-3-trifluoromethylphenyl isocyanate.

[0742](R)-3-{4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester, hydrochloride (0.13 g, 0.3 mmol) was dissolved in DCM(5 mL) and BSA (0.22 mL, 0.9 mmol) added. The mixture was stirred for0.5 hour, and diisopropylethylamine (0.052 mL, 0.3 mmol) was added. Thereaction mixture was added to the isocyanate above and the reactionmixture stirred overnight. The reaction mixture was transferred to aseparatory funnel and washed twice with water (10 mL), dried withmagnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purifiedby column chromatography (30 g) using ethyl acetate/n-heptane (4:6) (400mL) and then ethyl acetate (200 mL) as eluents to afford 0.085 g of(R)-3-{4-[3-(4-cyano-3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0743]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.12-1.44 (m, 6H), 1.66-1.82 (m, 5H), 3.41 (m,1H), 3.53 (m, 1H), 3.60 (s, 3H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 4.47 (s, 2H), 5.69(s,1H), 7.21 (m, 4H), 7.33 (d, 2H), 7.76 (d, 2H), 7.98 (s, 2H), 8.14 (s,1H), 8.48 (t, 1H), 9.1 (s, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=623 (M+1);R_(t)=6.02 min.

[0744] Step 7:

[0745](R)-3-{4-[3-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester (0.07 g, 0.124 mmol) was suspended in ethanol (3 mL)and sodium hydroxide (4 N, 0.19 mL, 0.742 mmol) was added. The reactionmixture was stirred for 1.5 hour, and concentrated to remove theethanol. The residue was diluted with water (10 mL) and acidified withhydrochloric acid (4 N, 0.21 mL). The mixture was extracted with ethylacetate (2×10 mL) and the combined organic phases were washed with water(3×10 mL), dried with magnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo toafford the title compound (0.68 g).

[0746]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.16-1.42 (m, 6H), 1.66-1.82 (m, 5H), 3.40 (m,1H), 3.54 (m, 1H), 4.16 (m, 1H), 4.48 (s, 2H), 7.20 (m, 4H), 7.34 (d,2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 7.99 (s, 2H), 8.16 (s, 1H), 8.44 (t, 1H), 9.1 (s,1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=609 (M+1); R_(t)=7.27 min.

Example 38 General Procedure (B)

[0747](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-tert-Butylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0748] Step 6:(R)-3-{4-[3-(3-tert-Butylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0749] 3-(tert-Butyl)aniline (0.054 g, 0.36 mmol) was dissolved in ethylacetate (2 mL) and added dry hydrogen chloride in ethyl acetate twice(3.5 M, 3 mL+2.5 mL). After 15 min the mixture was concentrated todryness and co-evaporated three times from toluene (3×5 mL). The residuewas added toluene (2.5 mL) and flushed with nitrogen for about 10 min,before diphosgene (0.43 mL) was added. Then the mixture was gentlyrefluxed for 1 hour under a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture was cooledand concentrated in vacuo. This was repeated twice to remove excess ofdiphosgene. The mixture was concentrated to dryness and co-evaporatedthree times from toluene (5 mL each time). The residue was concentratedto dryness and co-evaporated twice from toluene. Then it was redissolvedin toluene (2.5 mL) and flushed with nitrogen for about 10 min, beforediphosgene (0.43 mL) was added. The mixture was gently refluxed undernitrogen for 1 hour. After cooling, the mixture was concentrated andco-evaporated twice from toluene to remove excess diphosgene to afford3-tert-butyl-phenyl isocyanate.

[0750](R)-3-{4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester, hydrochloride (0.13 g, 0.3 mmol) was dissolved in DCM(5 mL) and BSA (0.22 mL, 0.9 mmol) was added. The mixture was stirredfor 0.5 hour, and diisopropylethylamine (0.052 mL, 0.3 mmol) was added.The reaction mixture was added to the isocyanate above and stirredovernight. The reaction was transferred to a separatory funnel andwashed twice with water (10 mL), dried with magnesium sulphate andconcentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatographyon silica gel (30 g) using ethyl acetate and n-heptane (6:4) (400 mL)and then ethyl acetate (100 mL) as eluent to afford 0.12 g of(R)-3-{4-13-(3-tert-butylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0751]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.23 (s, 11H), 1.28-1.42 (m, 3H), 1.65-1.80(m, 5H), 2.47 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.51 (m, 1H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 4.94(s, 2H), 5.71 (d, 1H), 6.99 (d, 1H), 7.12-7-24 (m, 5H), 7.28 (d, 1H),7.36 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s,1H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 8.08 (s, 1H), 8.50 (t, 1H);HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=(585+1); R_(t)=8.30 min.

[0752] Step 7:

[0753](R)-3-{4-[3-(3-tert-Butylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester (0.11 g, 0.188 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (4 mL)and sodium hydroxide (4 N, 0.28 mL, 1.128 mmol) was added. The reactionwas stirred for 1.5 hour and concentrated in vacuo to remove theethanol. The residue was diluted with water (10 mL), acidified withhydrochloric acid (4 N, 0.3 mL) and extracted with ethyl acetate (2×10mL). The combined organic phases were washed with water (3×10 mL) anddried with magnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo to afford thetitle compound (0.10 g).

[0754]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.23 (s, 9H), 1.28-1.42 (m, 4H), 1.65-1.81 (m,5H), 2.47 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 4.16 (m, 1H), 4.94 (s,2H), 7.00 (d, 1H), 7.11-7.24 (m, 6H), 7.28 (d, 1H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 7.41(s, 1H), 7.80 (d, 2H), 8.10 (s, 1H), 8.46 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B):m/z=572 (M+1); R_(t)=7.78 min.

Example 39 General Procedure (B)

[0755](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3-hydroxymethyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0756] Preparation of3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyaniline to beused in Step 6:

[0757] Fuming nitric acid (5 mL) was cooled on an ice bath. Methyl2-(trifluoromethoxy)benzoate (5 g, 22.7 mmol) was slowly added within 30min keeping the temperature below 15° C. The reaction was then stirredat 60° C. for 1 hour and 2 hours at room temperature. The mixture waspoured on ice water whereupon an oil separated. The aqueous supernatantwas decanted and additional water (50 mL) was added to the oil. Afterneutralisation with sodium hydrogen carbonate, the mixture was extractedwith ethyl acetate (25 mL). The aqueous phase was extracted with ethylacetate (15 mL) once more. The combined organic phases were washed withsaturated sodium chloride (2×15 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate), andconcentrated in vacuo to give 5.69 g of5-nitro-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester.

[0758]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.93 (3H, s), 7.82 (1H, d), 8.58 (1H, d), 8.67(1H, s); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z: 266; R_(t)=6.0 min.

[0759] 5-Nitro-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester (5.69 g, 21.5mmol) was dissolved in ethanol 99.9% (80 mL) and stannous (II) chloridedihydrate (24.2 g, 107 mmol) was added. The suspension was stirred on anoil-bath at 75° C. for 2 hours and concentrated in vacuo. Ethyl acetate(100 mL) and water (50 mL) was added and pH was adjusted to pH 8 with 4N sodium hydroxide (50 mL). The liquid was decanted from theprecipitation. The precipitate was washed twice with ethyl acetate. Theaqueous phase was extracted twice with ethyl acetate (60 mL). Thecombined organic phases were washed with a saturated sodium chloridesolution (2×100 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated invacuo. Purification by column chromatography (120 g silica) using ethylacetate and heptane (1:1) as eluent afforded 3.8 g of5-amino-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester.

[0760]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.82 (3H, s), 5.63 (2H, s), 6.79 (1H, d), 7.07(1H, s), 7.11 (1H, d); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z: 236, R_(t)=4.6 min.

[0761] 5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxybenzoic acid methyl ester (3.0 g, 12.8mmol) was dissolved in THF (20 mL) in a three-necked flask equipped witha thermometer and an addition funnel under nitrogen. Under stirring andice-cooling lithium aluminum hydride (1 M in THF, 15 mL) was addeddropwise within 10 minutes. Stirring was continued at room temperaturefor 1 hr, and the reaction was concentrated in vacuo. The residue wassuspended in DCM (150 mL) and water (50 mL), then filtered throughcelite, washed with DCM and water. The filtrate was separated, and thewater phase was extracted once more with DCM (30 mL). The combinedorganic phases were washed with water (2×20 mL), dried (magnesiumsulphate) and concentrated in vacuo to give 2.47 g of(5-amino-2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)methanol.

[0762]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 3.92 (2H, d), 5.18 (1H, t), 5.28 (2H, s), 6.45(1H, d), 6.91 (1H, d); HPLC-MS (method B): m/z: 208, R_(t)=7.2 min.

[0763] 5-Amino-2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)methanol (1.2 g, 5.8 mmol) wasdissolved in DMF (5 mL) and imidazole (0.48 g, 7.1 mmol) andtert-butyldimethylsilyl chloride (0.99 g, 6.6 mmol) were added. Thereaction mixture was stirred for 16 hours and water (20 mL) was added.The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (2×50 mL) and the combinedorganic phases were washed with water (10 mL), citric acid (10 mL, 10%)and water (2×10 mL), dried (magnesium sulphate) and concentrated invacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography (110 g, silica)using ethyl acetate and heptane (1:3) as eluent to give 1.2 g of3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyaniline.

[0764]¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 0.82 (9H, s), 3.25 (6H, s), 4.52 (2H, s), 5.23(2H, s), 6.41 (1H, d), 6.61 (1H, s), 6.86 (1H,d); HPLC-MS (method B):m/z: 322; R_(t)=7.17 min.

[0765] Step 6:(R)-3-{4-[3-[3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid Methyl Ester

[0766] Bis(trichloromethyl)carbonate (triphosgene) (0.09 g, 0.31 mmol)was dissolved in DCM (2 mL) and cooled in an ice-bath under nitrogen.3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyaniline (0.3 g,0.93 mmol) was evaporated twice from toluene to remove any moisture andthen dissolved in DCM (2 mL) and diisopropylethylamine (0.32 mL) wasadded. This solution was added to the cooled triphosgene solution andthe mixture was stirred at 20° C. for 2.5 hours.(R)-3-{4-[(4-Cyclohexylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxy-propionicacid methyl ester hydrochloride (0.37 g, 0.83 mmol) was evaporated twicefrom toluene and dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and diisopropylethylamine(0.141 mL, 0.83 mmol) was added. The solution was added to theisocyanate above and, with stirring, heated at 80° C. under nitrogen for2 hours. The reaction mixture was evaporated in vacuo and the residuewas extracted with DCM (80 mL), aqueous citric acid (10%, 25 mL). Theaqueous phase was extracted with DCM (30 mL). The combined organicphases were washed with aqueous citric acid (10%, 3×25 mL), dried withmagnesium sulphate and evaporated in vacuo. The residue was purified bycolumn chromatography on silica gel (58 g) using ethyl acetate andn-heptane (940 mL, 1:1 and 300 mL ethyl acetate) as eluent to afford0.03 g of(R)-3-{4-[3-[3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester.

[0767] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=758 (M+1); R_(t)=9.57 min.

[0768] Step 7:

[0769](R)-3-{4-[3-[3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid methyl ester (24 mg, 0.032 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (1 mL)and sodium hydroxide (0.05 mL, 019 mmol) was added. The reaction mixturewas stirred for 2 hours and concentrated to remove the ethanol. Theresidue was diluted with water (10 mL), acidified with hydrochloric acid(4 N, 0.3 mL) and extracted with ethyl acetate (2×10 mL). The combinedorganic phases were washed with water (3×10 mL) and dried with magnesiumsulphate and concentrated in vacuo to give 17 mg of(R)-3-{4-[3-[3-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid.

[0770] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=744 (M+1); R_(t)=9.35 min.

[0771](R)-3-{4-[3-[3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid (17 mg, 0.023 mmol) was dissolved in acetonitrile:water (9:1) (2mL) and caesium fluoride (35 mg, 0.35 mmol) added. The reaction mixturewas stirred at 80° C. for 6 hours and additional amounts of caesiumfluoride (35 mg) added. The mixture was stirred at 60° C. overnight,concentrated in vacuo and diluted with ethyl acetate (10 mL) and water(5 mL). The organic phase was washed with water (3×5 mL) and dried withmagnesium sulphate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purifiedby preparative HPLC affording the title compound.

[0772]¹H-NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 1.35 (m, 5H), 1.79 (m, 5H), 4.49 (s, 2H), 4.95(s, 2H), 5.29 (s, 1H), 7.12-7.26 (m, 6H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.49 (dd, 1H),7.63 (d, 1H), 7.77 (d, 2H), 8.42 (t, 1H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=630(M+1); R_(t)=6.62 min.

[0773] General Procedure (C) for Solid Phase Synthesis of Compounds ofthe General Formula (Ic):

[0774] wherein

[0775] R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, A, Z, D and E are as defined for formula (I),

[0776] X is —C(O)NH— or —C(O)NHCR¹²R¹³— wherein R¹² and R¹³ are asdefined for formula (I), and

[0777] Resin is a polystyrene resin loaded with a 2-chlorotrityl linker.

[0778] When A is —CHOH— step 4 is performed using 1) BSA and 2) D-N═C═Oor D-CHR¹³—N═C═O. Otherwise, step 4 is performed using only D-N═C═O orD-CHR¹³—N═C═O.

[0779] The procedure is illustrated in the following examples.

Example 40 General Procedure (C)

[0780](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid

[0781] Step 1: Resin Bound (R)-Fmoc-isoserine

[0782] 50 mg polystyrene resin functionalized with a 2-chlorotritylchloride linker was vortexed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) for 1 hour. The resin was filtered andwashed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone: 1,2-dichloropropane (1:1, 2×1 mL).N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and 1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) wereadded followed by 150 μmol (R)-Fmoc-isoserine and 100 μLdiisopropylethylamine. After shaking the suspension for 4 hours at 25°C., the resin was isolated by filtration and washed with DCM:methanol:diisopropylethylamine 17:2:1 (2×1 mL) andN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (2×1 mL).

[0783] Step 2: Resin Bound(R)-3-(4-Formylbenzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionic Acid

[0784] To the above resin bound (R)-Fmoc-isoserine was added 500 μL of a20% solution of piperidine in DMF. Upon shaking for 30 min, the resinwas drained and washed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (6×1 mL). Then 200μmol 4-formylbenzoic acid (30 mg) and 200 μmol HOBt (31 mg) weredissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and added to the resinfollowed by 200 μmol diisopropyl carbodiimide (25.2 mg) dissolved inacetonitrile (500 μL). The mixture was shaken for 4 hours at 25° C.followed by filtration and washing of the resin withN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (3×1 mL).

[0785] Step 3: Resin Bound(R)-3-{4-[(4-tert-butylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0786] The above resin bound(R)-3-(4-formylbenzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionic acid was treated with a0.5 M solution of 4-tert-butylaniline (0.25 mmol) in a mixture ofN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and trimethylorthoformate (1:1, 0.5 mL) andglacial acetic acid (50 μL) for 1 hour at 25° C. Sodium cyanoborohydride(250 μmol, 16 mg) dissolved in a mixture of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone andmethanol (1:1, 0.25 mL) was added and the mixture was vortexed at 25° C.for 4 hours followed by filtration and washing with a mixture ofN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and methanol (1:1, 2×1 mL) 3×1 mLN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (3×1 mL) and a mixture of 1,2-dichloropropaneand diisopropylethylamine (7:1, 2×0.75 mL).

[0787] Step 4: Resin Bound(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0788] The above resin bound(R)-3-{4-[(4-tert-butylphenylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid was added 1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) and BSA (100 μL) and themixture was vortexed at 25° C. for 1 hour. 200 μmol3,4-Dichlorophenylisocyanate was added and shaking the mixture 5 hoursat 25° C. followed by filtration and washing of the resin with 2×1 mLDCM, 4×1 mL N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone, 2×1 mL H₂O, 3×1 mL THF and 5×1 mLDCM afforded the resin bound title compound.

[0789] Step 5:(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0790] The above resin bound(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid was treated with 1 mL 20% TFA in DCM for 1 hour at 25° C. Theproduct was filtered off and the resin was washed with 1 mL DCM. Thecombined extracts were concentrated in vacuo to afford the titlecompound.

[0791]¹H-NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.65 (d, 2H), 7.45-7.40 (m, 4H), 7.35-7.20 (m,3H), 7.10-7.00 (m, 3H), 6.30 (s, 1H), 4.90 (s, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.83(m, 2H), 1.32 (s, 9H); HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=558 (M+1); R_(t)=4.71min.

[0792] The following examples were made as described above.

Example 41 General Procedure (C)

[0793](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0794] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=564 (M+1); R_(t)=4.92 min/5.02 min.

Example 42 General Procedure (C)(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0795]

[0796] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=584 (M+1); R_(t)=5.12 min.

Example 43 General Procedure (C)

[0797](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-4H-benzo[1,3]-dioxin-6-yl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0798] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=646 (M+1); R_(t)=5.24 min.

Example 44 General Procedure (C)

[0799](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-4H-benzo[1,3]-dioxin-6-yl)ureidomethyl]-benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0800] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=620 (M+1); R_(t)=4.88 min.

Example 45 General Procedure (C)

[0801](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-3-(2,2,4,4-tetrafluoro-4H-benzo[1,3dioxin-6-yl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0802] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=606 (M+1); R_(t)=5.11 min/5.20 min.

Example 46 General Procedure (C)

[0803](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-Butylphenyl)-3-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0804] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=526 (M+1); R_(t)=4.24 min.

Example 47 General Procedure (C)

[0805](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexyl-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0806] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=552 (M+1); R_(t)=4.65 min.

Example 48 General Procedure (C)

[0807](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0808] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=550 (M+1); R_(t)=6.77 min.

Example 49 General Procedure (C)

[0809](R)-3-{4-[3-(4-Chloro-3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0810] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=618 (M+1); R_(t)=7.58 min.

Example 50 General Procedure (C)

[0811](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-fluoro-3-nitrophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0812] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=579 (M+1); R_(t)=6.85 min.

Example 51 General Procedure (C)

[0813](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(4-isopropylphenyl)ureidomethyl}benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0814] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=558 (M+1); R_(t)=7.73 min.

Example 52 General Procedure (C)

[0815](R)-3-{4-1-(4-Cyclohex-1-enylphenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0816] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=582 (M+1); R_(t)=4.99 min.

Example 53 General Procedure (C)

[0817](R)-3-{4-[3-(4-Acetylphenyl)-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0818] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=558 (M+1); R_(t)=6.42 min.

Example 54 General Procedure (C)

[0819] 3-{4-[3-[1(RS)-(4-Bromophenyl)ethyl]-1-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2(R)-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0820] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=624 (M+1); R_(t)=7.45 min.

Example 55 General Procedure (C)

[0821](R)-3-{4-[1-(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-3-(3,5-difluorophenyl)ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0822] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=552 (M+1); R_(t)=4.76 min.

[0823] General Procedure (D) for Solid Phase Synthesis of Compounds ofthe General Formula (Id:

[0824] wherein

[0825] R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, A, Z, D and E are as defined for formula (I),

[0826] X is —C(O)—(CR¹²R¹³)_(r)—(CH₂)_(s)—, wherein r, s, R¹² and R¹³are as defined for formula (I), and

[0827] Resin is a polystyrene resin loaded with a 2-chlorotrityl linker.

[0828] When A is —CHOH— step 4 is performed using 1) BSA and 2) D-C(O)OHor D-CHR¹³—C(O)OH. Otherwise, step 4 is performed using only D-C(O)OH orD-CHR¹³—C(O)OH.

Example 56 General Procedure (D)

[0829](R)-3-[4-({(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-[2-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0830] Step 1: Resin Bound (R)-Fmoc-isoserine

[0831] 50 mg polystyrene resin functionalized with a 2-chlorotritylchloride linker was vortexed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) for 1 hour. The resin was filtered andwashed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone/1,2-dichloropropane (1:1, 2×1 mL).N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and 1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) wasadded followed by 150 mmol (R)-Fmoc-isoserine and 100 μLdiisopropylethylamine. After shaking the suspension for 4 hours at 25°C., the resin was isolated by filtration and washed withDCM:methanol:diisopropylethylamine (17:2:1) (2×1 mL) andN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (2×1 mL).

[0832] Step 2: Resin Bound(R)-3-(4-formylbenzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionic Acid

[0833] To the above resin bound (R)-Fmoc-isoserine was added 500 μL of a20% solution of piperidine in DMF. Upon shaking for 30 min, the resinwas drained and washed with N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (6×1 mL). Then, 200μmol 4-formylbenzoic acid (30 mg) and 200 μmol HOBt (31 mg) wasdissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (500 μL) and added to the resinfollowed by 200 μmol diisopropyl carbodiimide (25.2 mg) dissolved inacetonitrile (500 μL). The mixture was shaken for 4 hours at 25° C.followed by filtration and washing of the resin withN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (3×1 mL).

[0834] Step 3: Resin Bound(R)-3-{4-[(4-tert-butylcyclohexylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0835] The above resin bound(R)-3-(4-formylbenzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionic acid was treated with a0.5 M solution of 4-tert-butylcyclohexylamine (0.25 mmol) in a mixtureof N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and trimethylorthoformate (1:1, 0.5 mL) andglacial acetic acid (50 μL) for 1 hour at 25° C. Sodium cyanoborohydride(250 mmol, 16 mg) dissolved in a mixture of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone andmethanol (1:1, 0.25 mL) was added and the mixture was vortexed at 25° C.for 4 hours followed by filtration and washing with a mixture ofN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and methanol (1:1, 2×1 mL) 3×1 mLN-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (3×1 mL) and a mixture of 1,2-dichloropropaneand diisopropylethylamine (7:1, 2×0.75 mL).

[0836] Step 4: Resin Bound(R)-3-[4-({(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)-[2-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]-amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0837] The above resin bound(R)-3-{4-[(4-tert-butylcyclohexylamino)methyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid was added 1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL) and BSA (100 μL) and themixture was vortexed at 25° C. for 1 hour followed by filtration. To theresin was added a solution of 4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylacetic acid (400μmol) in a mixture of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone, 1,2-dichloropropane anddiisopropylethylamine (4.5:4.5:1, 1 mL) was added followed by a solutionof bromo-tris(pyrrolidino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (400 μmol) in1,2-dichloropropane (500 μL). The mixture was allowed to react for 3hours at 50° C. and the resin was allowed to cool to 25° C. while washedwith N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (4×1 mL), and DCM (10×1 mL) afforded theresin bound title compound.

[0838] Step 5:(R)-3-[4-({(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-[2-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)-benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0839] The above resin bound(R)-3-{4-[1-(4-tert-butylcyclohexyl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)-ureidomethyl]benzoylamino}-2-hydroxypropionicacid was treated with 1 mL 20% TFA in DCM for 1 hour at 25° C. Theproduct was filtered off and the resin was washed with 1 mL DCM. Thecombined extracts were concentrated in vacuo to afford the titlecompound.

[0840] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=579 (M+1); R_(f)=7.20 min.

[0841] The following examples were made as described above.

Example 57 General Procedure (D)

[0842](R)-3-[4-({(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-[2-(3-fluoro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)-benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0843] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=581 (M+1); R_(t)=7.22 min.

Example 58 General Procedure (D)

[0844](R)-3-[4-({(2,2-Diphenylethyl)-[2-(3-fluoro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)-benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0845] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=623 (M+1); R_(t)=6.87 min.

Example 59 General Procedure (D)

[0846](R)-3-(4-{[(5-Chlorobenzo[b]thiophene-3-carbonyl)-(2,2-diphenylethyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0847] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=613 (M+1); R_(t)=6.50 min.

Example 60 General Procedure (D)

[0848](R)-3-[4-({(2,2-Diphenylethyl)-[2-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0849] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=621 (M+1); R_(t)=6.90 min.

Example 61 General Procedure (D)

[0850](R)-3-(4-{[(4-tert-Butylcyclohexyl)-(5-chlorobenzo[b]thiophene-3-carbonyl)amino]methyl}-benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0851] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=571 (M+1); R_(t)=7.15 min.

Example 62 General Procedure (D)

[0852](R)-3-(4-{[(2,2-Diphenylethyl)-(5-trifluoromethoxy-1H-indole-2-carbonyl)amino]methyl}-benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0853] HPLC-MS (Method A): m/z=646 (M+1); R_(t)=6.93 min.

Example 63 General Procedure (D)

[0854](R)-3-[4-({(4-cyclohexylphenyl)-[(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0855] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=599 (M+1); R_(t)=5.19 min.

Example 64 General Procedure (D)

[0856](R)-3-[4-({(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-[(3-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0857] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=599 (M+1); R_(t)=5.17 min.

Example 65 General Procedure (D)

[0858](R)-3-[4-({(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-[(3-fluoro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0859] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=601 (M+1); R_(t)=5.19 min.

Example 66 General Procedure (D)

[0860](R)-3-(4-{([(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)acetyl]-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino)methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0861] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=651 (M+1); R_(t)=5.50 min.

Example 67 General Procedure (D)

[0862](R)-3-[4-({(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-[(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0863] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=583 (M+1); R_(t)=5.08 min.

Example 68 General Procedure (D)

[0864](R)-3-(4-({(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-[(3,4-dichlorophenyl)acetyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0865] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=583 (M+1); R_(t)=5.26 min.

Example 69 General Procedure (D)

[0866](R)-3-(4-{[[(3-Bromophenyl)acetyl]-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0867] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=595 (M+1); R_(t)=5.01 min.

Example 70 General Procedure (D)

[0868](R)-3-(4-{[(Biphenyl-4-ylacetyl)-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0869] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=591 (M+1); R_(t)=5.38 min.

Example 71 General Procedure (D)

[0870](R)-3-(4-{[(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-(2-naphthylacetyl)amino]methyl}benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0871] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=565 (M+1); R_(t)=5.10 min.

Example 72 General Procedure (D)

[0872](R)-3-(4-{[(3-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)propionyl)-(4-cyclohexylphenyl)amino]methyl}-benzoylamino)-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0873] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=665 (M+1); R_(t)=5.51 min.

Example 73 General Procedure (D)

[0874](R)-3-[4-({(4-Cyclohexylphenyl)-[3-(3-nitrophenyl)propionyl]amino}methyl)benzoylamino]-2-hydroxypropionicAcid

[0875] HPLC-MS (Method B): m/z=665 (M+1); R_(t)=5.51 min.

[0876] The following preferred compounds are within the scope of theinvention and may be prepared according to the procedures disclosedherein. Other preferred compounds are:

[0877] wherein E D

[0878] Furthermore, the following compounds are within the scope of thepresent invention and may be prepared according to the proceduresdisclosed herein:

[0879] Furthermore, the following preferred compounds (as pureenantiomers of either (R) or (S) configuration or mixtures thereof,including racemates) are within the scope of the invention and may beprepared according to the procedures set forth in the foregoingdescription:

[0880] Pharmacological Methods

[0881] In the following section binding assays as well as functionalassays useful for evaluating the efficiency of the compounds of theinvention are described.

[0882] Binding of compounds to the glucagon receptor may be determinedin a competition binding assay using the cloned human glucagon receptor.

[0883] Antagonism may be determined as the ability of the compounds toinhibit the amount of cAMP formed in the presence of 5 nM glucagon.

[0884] Glucagon Binding Assay (I)

[0885] Receptor binding are assayed using cloned human receptor (Lok etal., Gene 140, 203-209 (1994)). The receptor inserted in the pLJ6′expression vector using EcoRI/SSt1 restriction sites (Lok et al.) isexpressed in a baby hamster kidney cell line (A3 BHK 570-25). Clones areselected in the presence of 0.5 mg/mL G-418 and are shown to be stablefor more than 40 passages. The K_(d) is shown to be 0.1 nM.

[0886] Plasma membranes are prepared by growing cells to confluence,detaching them from the surface and resuspending the cells in coldbuffer (10 mM tris/HCl, pH 7.4 containing 30 mM NaCl, 1 mMdithiothreitol, 5 mg/L leupeptin (Sigma), 5 mg/L pepstatin (Sigma), 100mg/L bacitracin (Sigma) and 15 mg/L recombinant aprotinin (Novo NordiskA/S)), homogenization by two 10-s bursts using a Polytron PT 10-35homogenizer (Kinematica), and centrifugation upon a layer of 41 w/v %sucrose at 95.000×g for 75 min. The white band located between the twolayers is diluted in buffer and centrifuged at 40.000×g for 45 min. Theprecipitate containing the plasma membranes is suspended in buffer andstored at −80° C. until use.

[0887] Glucagon is iodinated according to the chloramine T method(Hunter and Greenwood, Nature 194, 495 (1962)) and purified using anionexchange chromatography (Jorgensen et al., Hormone and Metab. Res. 4,223-224 (1972). The specific activity is 460 pCi/pg on the day ofiodination. Tracer is stored at −18° C. in aliquots and used immediatelyafter thawing.

[0888] Binding assays are carried out in triplicate in filter microtiterplates (MADV N65, Millipore). The buffer is 50 mM HEPES, 5 mM EGTA, 5 mMMgCl₂, 0.005% tween 20, pH 7.4. Glucagon is dissolved in 0.05 M HCl,added an equal amount (w/w) of human serum albumin and freeze-dried. Onthe day of use, it is dissolved in water and diluted in buffer to thedesired concentrations.

[0889] Test compounds are dissolved and diluted in DMSO. 140 μL buffer,25 μL glucagon or buffer, and 10 μL DMSO or test compound are added toeach well. Tracer (50.000 cpm) is diluted in buffer and 25 μL is addedto each well. 1-4 μg freshly thawed plasma membrane protein diluted inbuffer is then added in aliquots of 25 μL to each well. Plates areincubated at 30° C. for 2 hours. Non-specific binding is determined with10⁻⁶ M of glucagon. Bound tracer and unbound tracer are then separatedby vacuum filtration (Millipore vacuum manifold). The plates are washedwith 2×100 μL buffer/well. The plates are air dried for a couple ofhours, whereupon the filters are separated from the plates using aMillipore Puncher. The filters are counted in a gamma counter.

[0890] Functional Assay (I)

[0891] The functional assay was carried out in 96 well microtiter plates(tissue culture plates, Nunc). The resulting buffer concentrations inthe assay are 50 mM tris/HCl, 1 mM EGTA, 1.5 mM MgSO₄, 1.7 mM ATP, 20 μMGTP, 2 mM IBMX, 0.02% tween-20 and 0.1% human serum albumin. pH was 7.4.Glucagon and proposed antagonist are added in aliquots of 35 μL dilutedin 50 mM tris/HCl, 1 mM EGTA, 1.85 mM MgSO₄, 0.0222% tween-20 and 0.111%human serum albumin, pH 7.4.20 uL of 50 mM tris/HCl, 1 mM EGTA, 1.5 mMMgSO₄, 11.8 mM ATP, 0.14 mM GTP, 14 mM IBMX and 0.1% human serumalbumin, pH 7.4 was added. GTP was dissolved immediately before theassay.

[0892] 50 μL containing 5 μg of plasma membrane protein was added in atris/HCl, EGTA, MgSO₄, human serum albumin buffer (the actualconcentrations are dependent upon the concentration of protein in thestored plasma membranes).

[0893] The total assay volume is 140 μL. The plates are incubated for 2hours at 37° C. with continuous shaking. Reaction is terminated byaddition of 25 μL 0.5 N HCl. cAMP is measured by the use of ascintillation proximity kit (Amersham).

[0894] Glucagon Binding Assay (II)

[0895] BHK (baby hamster kidney cell line) cells are transfected withthe human glucagon receptor and a membrane preparation of the cells isprepared. Wheat Germ Agglutinin derivatized SPA beads containing ascintillant (WGA beads) (Amersham) bound the membranes. ¹²⁵I-glucagonbound to human glucagon receptor in the membranes and excited thescintillant in the WGA beads to light emission. Glucagon or samplesbinding to the receptor competed with ¹²⁵I-glucagon.

[0896] All steps in the membrane preparation are kept on ice orperformed at 4° C. BHK cells are harvested and centrifuged. The pelletis resuspended in homogenisation buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4, 2.5 mMCaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 250 mg/L bacitracin, 0.1 mM Pefabloc), homogenised2×10 sec using Polytron 10-35 homogenizer (Kinematica) and added thesame amount of homogenisation buffer as used for resuspension. Aftercentrifugation (15 min at 2000×g) the supernatant is transferred to coldcentrifuge tubes and centrifuged for 45 min at 40.000×g. The pellet isresuspended in homogenisation buffer, homogenised 2×10 sec (Polytron)and additional homogenisation buffer is added. The suspension iscentrifuged for 45 min at 40.000×g and the pellet is resuspended inresuspension buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4, 2.5 mM CaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂)and homogenised 2×10 sec. (Polytron). The protein concentration isnormally around 1.75 mg/mL. Stabilisation buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4,2.5 mM CaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 1% bovine serum albumin, 500 mg/Lbacitracin, 2.5 M sucrose) is added and the membrane preparation isstored at −80° C.

[0897] The glucagon binding assay is carried out in opti plates(Polystyrene Microplates, Packard). 50 μL assay buffer (25 mM HEPES,pH=7.5, 2.5 mM CaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 0.003% Tween-20, 0.005% bacitracin,0.05% sodium azide) and 5 μL glucagon or test compound (in DMSO) areadded to each well. 50 μL tracer (¹²⁵I-porcine glucagon, 50.000 cpm) and50 pL membranes (7.5 μg) containing the human glucagon receptor are thenadded to the wells. Finally 50 μL WGA beads containing 1 mg beads aretransferred to the well. The opti plates are incubated for 4 hours on ashaker and then settled for 8-48 hours. The opti plates are counted in aTopcounter. Non-specific binding is determined with 500 nM of glucagon.

[0898] GIP Binding Assay

[0899] BHK (baby hamster kidney cell line) cells are transfected withthe human GIP receptor and a membrane preparation of the cells isprepared. Wheat Germ Agglutinin derivatized SPA beads containing ascintillant (WGA beads) (Amersham) bound the membranes. ¹²⁵I-GIP boundto human GIP receptor in the membranes and excited the scintillant inthe WGA beads to light emission. GIP or samples binding to the receptorcompeted with ¹²⁵I-GIP.

[0900] All steps in the membrane preparation are kept on ice orperformed at 4° C. BHK cells are harvested and centrifuged. The pelletis resuspended in homogenisation buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4, 2.5 mMCaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 250 mg/L bacitracin, 0.1 mM Pefabloc), homogenised2×10 sec using Polytron 10-35 homogenizer (Kinematica) and added thesame amount of homogenisation buffer as used for resuspension. Aftercentrifugation (15 min at 2000×g) the supernatant is transferred to coldcentrifuge tubes and centrifuged for 45 min at 40.000×g. The pellet isresuspended in homogenisation buffer, homogenised 2×10 sec (Polytron)and additional homogenisation buffer is added. The suspension iscentrifuged for 45 min at 40.000×g and the pellet is resuspended inresuspension buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4, 2.5 mM CaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂)and homogenised 2×10 sec. (Polytron). The protein concentration isnormally around 1.75 mg/mL. Stabilisation buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.4,2.5 mM CaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 1% bovine serum albumin, 500 mg/Lbacitracin, 2.5 M sucrose) is added and the membrane preparation isstored at −80° C.

[0901] The GIP binding assay is carried out in opti plates (PolystyreneMicroplates, Packard). 50 μL assay buffer (25 mM HEPES, pH=7.5, 2.5 mMCaCl₂, 1.0 mM MgCl₂, 0.003% Tween-20, 0.005% bacitracin, 0.05% sodiumazide) and 5 μL GIP or test compound (in DMSO) are added to each well.50 μL tracer (¹²⁵I-porcine GIP, 50.000 cpm) and 50 μL membranes (20 μg)containing the human GIP receptor are then added to the wells. Finally50 μL WGA beads containing 1 mg beads are transferred to the well. Theopti plates are incubated for 3.5 hours on a shaker and then settled for8-48 hours. The opti plates are counted in a Top-counter. Non-specificbinding is determined with 500 nM of GIP.

[0902] The following table shows activity data for the above examplesaccording to the invention: Glu Bd Assay (II) GIP Bd Assay Example NoIC₅₀ (nM) IC₅₀ (nM) 1 29 701 2 12 269 3 18 653 4 23 124 5 26 519 6 10294 7 26 292 8 14 316 9 11 285 10 19 294 11 41 914 12 10 204 13 228 70014 19 274 15 35 395 16 61 205 17 22 448 18 177 >1500 19 15 916 20 52 69321 293 1258 22 354 2268 23 40 516 24 4.4 37 25 10 465 26 92 703 27 9.7258 28 19 364 29 24 623 30 13 217 31 917 3000 32 20 439 33 12 189 34 20400 35 40 432 36 14 284 37 19 520 38 33 221 39 18 357 40 107 800 41 1331588 42 41 340 43 17 226 44 39 291 45 61 373 46 507 1175 47 64 665 48182 >3000 49 25 160 50 119 >3000 51 88 831 52 47 341 53 390 >3000 54390 >3000 55 50 427 56 228 1374 57 439 >3000 58 957 >3000 59 594 >300060 1021 >3000 61 754 >3000 62 757 >3000 63 336 >3000 64 514 >3000 65520 >3000 66 325 >3000 67 520 >3000 68 528 >3000 69 430 >3000 70740 >3000 71 886 >3000 72 542 >3000 73 680 >3000

1. A compound of the general formula (I):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, A is —C(O)—, —CH(OR⁶)— or —CHF—, wherein R⁶ is hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, Z is arylene or a divalent radical derived from a 5 or 6 membered heteroaromatic ring containing 1 or 2 heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, which may optionally be substituted with one or two groups R⁷ and R⁸ selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR⁹, —NR⁹R¹⁰ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R⁹ and R¹⁰ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl,

wherein r is 0 or 1, q and s independently are 0, 1, 2 or 3, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³ and R¹⁴ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,

wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCH₂, —OCF₂CHF₂, —S(O)₂CF₃, —SCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²², —SR²¹, —NR²¹S(O)₂R²², —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², —S(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹, —S(O)₂R²¹, —C(O)NR²¹R²², —OC(O)NR²¹R²², —NR²¹C(O)R²², —CH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —OCH₂C(O)NR²¹R²², —OC(O)R²¹ or —C(O)OR²¹, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² AND C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyloxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkylthio, C₃₋₈cycloalkylthio, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy, aryloxycarbonyl, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, aryl-C₁₋₁₆-alkyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl or heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —C(O)OR²¹, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR²¹, —NR²¹R²² and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl-C₁₋₁₆-alkyl or aryl, or R²¹ and R²² when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds, or two of the groups R¹⁵ to R¹⁸ when placed in adjacent positions together may form a bridge —(CR²³R²⁴)_(a)—O(CR²⁵R²⁶)_(c)—O—, wherein a is 0, 1 or 2, c is 1 or 2, R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or fluorine, R¹⁹ and R²⁰ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₄-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,

wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OR³², —NR³²R³³, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl or aryl, wherein the aryl group optionally may be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —NO₂, —OR³², —NR³²R³³ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³² and R³³ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, or R³² and R³³ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴, —C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or —C(O)OR³⁴, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, heterocyclyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heterocyclyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl, heterocyclyl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, aryloxy, aroyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl-C₂₋₄-alkenyl, aryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkenyl or heteroaryl-C₂₋₆-alkynyl, of which the cyclic moieties optionally may be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds, or two of the groups R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ when attached to the same ring carbon atom or different ring carbon atoms together may form a radical —O—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—O—, —(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)— or —S—(CH₂)_(t)—CR³⁶R³⁷—(CH₂)_(l)—S—, wherein t and l independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, R³⁶ and R³⁷ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, as well as any optical or geometric isomer or tautomeric form thereof including mixtures of these or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 2. A compound according to claim 1, wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴ and R⁵ are hydrogen.
 3. A compound according to claim 1 or 2, wherein A is —CHF—.
 4. A compound according to claim 1 or 2, wherein A is —CH(OR⁶)—, wherein R⁶ is as defined in claim
 1. 5. A compound according to claim 4, wherein A is —CH(OH)—.
 6. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein Z is

wherein R⁷ and R⁸ are as defined in claim
 1. 7. A compound according to claim 6, wherein Z is


8. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein X is

wherein q is 0 or 1, r is 0 or 1, s is 0, 1 or 2, and R¹² and R¹³ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl.
 9. A compound according to claim 8, wherein X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—, —C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHC(CH₃)₂—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH═CH—, —(CH₂)_(s)—, —C(O)—, —C(O)O— or —NHC(O)—, wherein s is 0 or
 1. 10. A compound according to claim 9, wherein X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—, —C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—, —C(O)CH═CH—, —(CH₂)_(s)—, —C(O)—, —C(O)O— or —NHC(O)—, wherein s is 0 or
 1. 11. A compound according to claim 10, wherein X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—, —C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)NHCH₂CH₂—, —C(O)CH₂—, —CH₂—, —C(O)— or —NHC(O)—.
 12. A compound according to claim 11, wherein X is —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NHCH₂—, —C(O)NHCH(CH₃)—, —C(O)CH₂— or —C(O)—.
 13. A compound according to claim 12, wherein X is —C(O)NH—.
 14. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein D is

wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R²⁰ are as defined in claim
 1. 15. A compound according to claim 14, wherein D is

wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ are as defined in claim
 1. 16. A compound according to claim 14 or 15, wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —NO₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —SCF₃, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkoxy, —S—C₁₋₁₆-alkyl, —C(O)OR²¹, —C(O)R²¹, —CH₂OR²¹, —C(O)NR²¹R²², —S(O)R²¹, —S(O)R²¹, —S(O)₂R²¹, —S(O)₂CF₃, —S(O)₂NR²¹R²², C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkoxy or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-thioalkyl, or aryl, heteroaryl or aryloxy, which may optionally be substituted with —CF₃, —OCF₃, C₁₋₆-alkyl, halogen or —C(O)OR²¹, or two of the groups R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ when placed in adjacent positions together form a bridge —(CR²³R²⁴)_(a)—O—(CR²⁵R²⁶)_(c)—O—, wherein R²¹ and R²² independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, and a, c, R²³, R²⁴, R²⁵ and R²⁶ are as defined in claim
 1. 17. A compound according to claim 16, wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or C₁₋₆-alkoxy or wherein R¹⁵ and R¹⁶ together form a bridge —CF₂—O—CF₂—O— and R¹⁷ is hydrogen.
 18. A compound according to claim 17, wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ independently are hydrogen, halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or C₁₋₆-alkoxy.
 19. A compound according to claim 14, wherein D is

wherein R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁹ and R²⁰ are as defined in claim
 1. 20. A compound according to claim 19, wherein D is

wherein R¹⁵ and R¹⁶ are both hydrogen and R¹⁹ is C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl.
 21. A compound according to claim 19, wherein D is

wherein R¹⁵ and R¹⁶ are both hydrogen and R¹⁹ and R²⁰ are both C₁₋₆-alkyl.
 22. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein E is

wherein R²⁷, R²⁸, R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined in claim
 1. 23. A compound according to claim 22, wherein E is

wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ are as defined in claim
 1. 24. A compound according to claim 23, wherein E is

wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ are as defined in claim
 1. 25. A compound according to claim 23 or 24, wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl or phenyl, wherein the phenyl group is optionally substituted as defined in claim
 1. 26. A compound according to claim 25, wherein R²⁷ and R²⁸ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.
 27. A compound according to claim 26, wherein R²⁷ is hydrogen and R²⁸ is C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.
 28. A compound according to claim 27, wherein R²⁷ is hydrogen and R²⁸ is C₁₋₆-alkyl or C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl.
 29. A compound according to claim 22, wherein E is

wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined in claim
 1. 30. A compound according to claim 29, wherein E is

wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ are as defined in claim
 1. 31. A compound according to claim 29 or 30, wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen, —CHF₂, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —OCHF₂, —OCH₂CF₃, —OCF₂CHF₂, —SCF₃, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵, —SR³⁴, —S(O)R³⁴, —S(O)₂R³⁴, —C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —OC(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —NR³⁴C(O)R³⁵, —OCH₂C(O)NR³⁴R³⁵, —C(O)R³⁴ or —C(O)OR³⁴, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds.
 32. A compound according to claim 31, wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkoxy, halogen, —CF₃, —OCF₃ or —NR³⁴R³⁵, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ are as defined in claim 1, or C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which are optionally substituted as defined in claim
 1. 33. A compound according to claim 32, wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which are optionally substituted as defined in claim
 1. 34. A compound according to claim 32, wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen or C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds.
 35. A compound according to claim 34, wherein R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, and R³⁰ is different from hydrogen.
 36. A compound according to claim 34, wherein R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, and R³⁰ is C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds.
 37. A compound according to claim 36, wherein R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, and R³⁰ is C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds.
 38. A compound according to claim 37, wherein R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen, and R³⁰ is cyclohexenyl, which may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents selected from halogen, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃, —NO₂, —OR³⁴, —NR³⁴R³⁵ and C₁₋₆-alkyl, wherein R³⁴ and R³⁵ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl or aryl, or R³⁴ and R³⁵ when attached to the same nitrogen atom together with the said nitrogen atom may form a 3 to 8 membered heterocyclic ring optionally containing one or two further heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, and optionally containing one or two double bonds.
 39. A compound according to claim 37 or 38, wherein R³⁰ is substituted with one C₁₋₆-alkyl substituent.
 40. A compound according to claim 33, wherein R²⁹, R³⁰ and R³¹ independently are hydrogen, C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.
 41. A compound according to claim 40, wherein R²⁹ and R³¹ are both hydrogen and R³⁰ is C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or C₄₋₈-cycloalkenyl.
 42. A compound according to claim 1 of the general formula (I₁):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, X, D and E are as defined in claim 1 or in any one of the preceding claims.
 43. A compound according to claim 1 of the general formula (I₂):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, D and E are as defined in claim 1 or in any one of the preceding claims.
 44. A compound according to claim 1 of the general formula (I₃):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴⁴ R⁵, R⁶, R⁷ R⁸, R¹⁵, R¹⁶ R¹⁷, R²⁹, R³⁰, and R³¹ are as defined in claim 1 or in any one of the preceding claims.
 45. A compound according to claim 42, 43 or 44, wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷ and R⁸ are hydrogen.
 46. A compound according to claim 1 of the general formula (I₄):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁷, R⁸, X, D and E are as defined in claim 1 or in any one of the preceding claims.
 47. A compound according to claim 1 of the general formula (I₅):

wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁷, R⁸, D and E are as defined in claim 1 or in any one of the preceding claims.
 48. A compound according to claim 46 or 47, wherein R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁷ and R⁸ are hydrogen.
 49. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, which has an IC₅₀ value of no greater than 5 μM as determined by the Glucagon Binding Assay (I) or Glucagon Binding Assay (II) disclosed herein.
 50. A compound according to claim 49, which has an IC₅₀ value of less than 1 μM, preferably of less than 500 nM and even more preferred of less than 100 nM as determined by the Glucagon Binding Assay (I) or Glucagon Binding Assay (II) disclosed herein.
 51. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, which is an agent useful for the treatment and/or prevention of an indication selected from the group consisting of hyperglycemia, IGT, Type 2 diabetes, Type 1 diabetes, dyslipidemia and obesity.
 52. A compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for use as a medicament.
 53. A pharmaceutical composition comprising, as an active ingredient, at least one compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 together with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients.
 54. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 53 in unit dosage form, comprising from about 0.05 mg to about 1000 mg, preferably from about 0.1 mg to about 500 mg and especially preferred from about 0.5 mg to about 200 mg of the compound according to any one of the claims 1 to
 51. 55. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of disorders or diseases, wherein a glucagon antagonistic action is beneficial.
 56. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of glucagon-mediated disorders and diseases.
 57. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of hyperglycemia.
 58. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for lowering blood glucose in a mammal.
 59. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of IGT.
 60. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of Type 2 diabetes.
 61. Use according to claim 60 for the preparation of a medicament for the delaying or prevention of the progression from IGT to Type 2 diabetes.
 62. Use according to claim 60 for the preparation of a medicament for the delaying or prevention of the progression from non-insulin requiring Type 2 diabetes to insulin requiring Type 2 diabetes.
 63. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of Type 1 diabetes.
 64. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of obesity.
 65. Use of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment and/or prevention of dyslipidemia.
 66. Use according to any one of the claims 55 to 65 in a regimen which comprises treatment with a further antidiabetic agent.
 67. Use according to any one of the claims 55 to 66 in a regimen which comprises treatment with a further antiobesity agent.
 68. Use according to any one of the claims 55 to 67 in a regimen which additionally comprises treatment with a further antihyperlipidemic agent.
 69. Use according to any one of the claims 55 to 68 in a regimen which additionally comprises treatment with an antihypertensive agent.
 70. A method for the treatment and/or prevention of disorders or diseases, wherein a glucagon antagonistic action is beneficial, the method comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 51 or a pharmaceutical composition according to claim 53 or
 54. 71. The method according to claim 70, wherein the effective amount of the compound is in the range of from about 0.05 mg to about 2000 mg, preferably from about 0.1 mg to about 1000 mg and especially preferred from about 0.5 mg to about 500 mg per day. 